WILLIAMSTOWN – The First United Methodist Church in Williamstown will host its annual Giant Garage Sale on Saturday, April 25, continuing a decades-long effort to fund community outreach programs across the Mid-Ohio Valley, according to a release from the church.

Started in 1994, the sale has grown into a large-scale event featuring thousands of donated items collected year-round and prepared over a 10-day period by volunteers who sort, clean and price merchandise. The event attracts hundreds of shoppers from throughout the region and raises about $15,000 annually to support local initiatives addressing food insecurity, clothing needs and social isolation, according to the release.

Funds from the sale help sustain several outreach programs, including the Community Angel Project, which provided Christmas gifts for 65 Williamstown Elementary students in 2025, the release said. The effort began about a decade ago with seven students and has expanded through partnerships with local churches, businesses and civic organizations. Organizers distributed about 560 gifts last year, with community members purchasing items through an online registry within a week, according to the release.

Proceeds also support a weekend meal bag program for Williamstown Middle and High School students, providing food for those who may otherwise go without meals outside of school. Each bag includes multiple breakfasts, lunches and dinners, along with snacks, and volunteers deliver groceries weekly throughout the school year. Additional holiday meal support is provided during Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter, according to the release.

Another initiative funded through the sale is a monthly community breakfast, held on the third Saturday of each month, where volunteers serve hot meals to 60 to 80 attendees, the release said. The program has expanded beyond local food pantry clients to include guests from surrounding communities, offering meals and opportunities for fellowship, according to the release.

The church has also expanded its clothing outreach in recent years, developing three organized clothing shops serving adults, teens and younger children, the release said. The program began as a small addition to the community breakfast but has grown significantly, now receiving multiple large donations of gently used clothing each week. A dedicated teen shop was created in response to needs identified by school officials, according to the release.

Additional mission efforts include delivering meals and gift bags to shut-ins, supporting teacher appreciation events and recognizing local service workers, the release said.

Missions Chairperson Nancy Fenton said the garage sale offers a wide variety of items, from furniture and household goods to clothing, antiques and seasonal décor.

“If there is something you need, we’ve got it,” Fenton said in the release. “From mowers, gardening supplies, furniture, kitchen supplies, pet care, personal care, antiques, linens, holiday decorations and so much more.”

Clothing and shoes will be available for purchase at $5 per bag, with items organized and displayed in designated shopping areas with changing rooms, according to the release.