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In Memory of Lisa Jones (d. 1996)

The Lisa Jones House was established in loving memory of Lisa Jones, first wife of Dr. Terry Jones, who passed away in 1996. Lisa had a deep heart for the poor and the broken, and this ministry carries on that legacy.

About the Lisa Jones House

The Lisa Jones House is a community food pantry operated by Dove World Outreach Center in Gainesville, Florida. It provides free food, groceries, and essential household supplies to families and individuals in need — regardless of their faith, background, or circumstances.

The ministry takes its name — and its heart — from Lisa Jones, who believed deeply that the church's first obligation is to its community: to feed the hungry, clothe the naked, and welcome the stranger. That vision, rooted in the teachings of Jesus, continues to guide everything we do at the Lisa Jones House.

"For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me."
— Matthew 25:35

Our History

The roots of this ministry go back to Cologne, Germany, where Dr. Terry Jones and his team operated a similar community outreach as part of their church work in the 1980s and 1990s. What began as a small effort to feed neighbors in need grew into an organized pantry serving hundreds of families.

When Dove World Outreach Center was established in Gainesville, Florida, the Joneses brought that same vision with them. The food pantry was formalized and named the Lisa Jones House in 1996 following Lisa's passing — a living memorial to a woman whose compassion for the poor never wavered.

Today, the pantry is supported in part through the proceeds of TS and Company, the church's vintage furniture and resale business. Every purchase helps fund the food ministry and keep the doors of the Lisa Jones House open to those who need it most.

500+ Families Served Annually
1996 Year Established
Free All Services, No Cost

What We Provide

The Lisa Jones House distributes a range of food and household items to families in need. All services are provided free of charge, with no requirement of church membership or statement of faith.

Items Currently Available

  • Canned goods & dry staples
  • Fresh produce (seasonal)
  • Bread & baked goods
  • Dairy products
  • Infant formula & baby food
  • Personal hygiene items
  • Cleaning supplies
  • Clothing (select items)

How to Receive Help

If you or your family is in need, we invite you to visit the Lisa Jones House. There is no application process and no means test. Simply come, and we will serve you.

The pantry is open on Tuesday and Thursday mornings from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon. We are located at Dove World Outreach Center, 5200 NW 37th Ave, Gainesville, FL. For special circumstances or to arrange a pickup, please contact us.

How to Give

The Lisa Jones House depends on the generosity of our congregation and the wider community. There are several ways to support the ministry:

Donate food items — Non-perishable goods can be dropped off at the church during office hours (Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.).

Give financially — Monetary donations allow us to purchase fresh produce and fill gaps in the pantry. All donations go directly to the food ministry.

Shop at TS and Company — Our vintage furniture and resale business channels profits directly into the food pantry. Browse our listings and support the ministry while furnishing your home.

Volunteer — We welcome volunteers to help sort, pack, and distribute food. No experience necessary — just a willing heart. Get in touch to find out how to serve.

Every gift — of time, food, or money — helps us keep Lisa Jones's legacy of compassion alive in Gainesville.

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