Charity for the Community: Chester Eastside, Inc.

By Kaitlin Irwin

Chester Eastside, Inc. (CEI) has been serving the community for over 30 years and now operates out of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church. Since 2014, CEI has been an incorporated non-profit organization, and their efforts and services grow by the year! At the heart of CEI is a community of individuals who are devoted to welcoming Chester residents while advocating for social justice, safety, and respect.

One of the most well-known initiatives of CEI is their food bank, which provides over 100,000 bagged meals every year to food-insecure families in the area. Chester is described as a food desert, which means that many families are burdened with the question of where their next meal will come from. The food bank caters to all ages and gets fresh produce and nutritious goods into the homes of eligible families. The goods are distributed 2 days a week, and visitors can get a hot meal when the pantry is in operation. None of this would be possible without CEI’s volunteers. There are about 40 individuals serving on an ongoing basis, assisting with a variety of services and tasks. The organization’s Board of Directors is filled with a pivotal group of 15 individuals who motivate, inspire, and contribute to CEI’s efforts on all fronts.

Rev. Zuline G. Wilkinson is among the Board, serving as Executive Director since November 2016. She has spent 30 years in the nonprofit sector, working for community-based organizations and assisting diverse populations. Her degrees in social work and divinity provide the foundation for her experience and have allowed her to utilize her gifts in a hands-on way. She believes CEI can make a difference and work at fulfilling the needs of the city’s residents. Other staff members include Mrs. Tonya Warren (Director Operations and Community Services); Mrs. Kathryn Kelly-Redd (Educational Programs); Ms.Vida Johnson (Assistant Director, Educational Services); Mr. Edward Wasenkas (Technology Coordinator); and Mr. Jose Droz (Facilities).

Rev. Zuline G. Wilkinson

Along with dozens of dedicated volunteers, CEI is able to continually educate and uplift others. Besides offering food, the organization gives out clothing and small household items. Classes and programs are another service that makes CEI a beacon in the city. Their after-school programs means that children can have a safe space to get one-on-one help with homework, snacks, and access to a computer lab. A computer technology program is tailored to high schoolers, while a summer camp experience is offered each year to encourage kids to stay active in body and mind. A state-approved equivalency program has proved fruitful, and parenting classes provide enrichment and motivation to those starting families. Every other month the CEI’s Mother’s Club brings in a speaker to discuss relevant topics such as community resources and mental health. It’s an opportunity for parents to come together, have a meal, and learn from others.

Working towards a hopeful future is what CEI is all about, and they’re expecting more growth in the upcoming months. A brand-new adult education program already has a waiting list, and there are plans to expand the food bank and after-school program. CEI is also discussing a new cultural arts program in honor of former Executive Director Rev. Bernice Warren, who was passionate about cultural expression and exposure in all facets of life. By continuing to engage and interact with the community, CEI is sure to reach even more people in 2018. If you’d like more information about Chester Eastside, visit them online at https://chestereastside.org or call 610-872-4812.