About Us
About Beth-El Farmworker Ministry
Supporting families. Strengthening community. Sharing hope.
For nearly 50 years, Beth-El has walked alongside farmworker families, providing essential resources and building a stronger, more connected community.
Our Heritage
Serving since 1976.
Beth-El Farmworker Ministry began in 1976 when a small group of Cumberland Presbyterians rented a tiny house in Ruskin, Florida and began holding Spanish-language church services for migrant farmworkers.
As families came to worship, their many needs became clear. Beth-El grew in response, becoming a nonprofit ministry serving farmworking families and neighbors in need.
“Feeding the Mind, Spirit, and Body of the farmworking community and our neighbors in need, through opportunities for hunger relief, education, healthcare, and spiritual growth.”
Today
A 27-acre ministry site serving rural communities south of Tampa.
Beth-El Farmworker Ministry, Inc. serves the nearby rural population from its site on U.S. Highway 301, about 20 miles south of Tampa.
The ministry operates under a covenant among its governing bodies, the Cumberland Presbyterian Church and the Tampa Bay and Peace River Presbyteries of the Presbyterian Church (USA).
The Plight of the Farm Working Community
Farmworkers face difficult conditions and limited resources.
Working Conditions
Migrant farmworkers are among the poorest of the working poor. They brave Florida heat and difficult working conditions, often with inconsistent hours and seasonal employment.
Health & Housing
Many families face nutrition-related health challenges, scarce housing, and living costs that consume a large portion of their income.
Education Barriers
Frequent moves, family responsibilities, language barriers, and cultural differences can make it difficult for children and students to thrive in school.
Community Need
Beth-El responds with practical care, trusted relationships, and programs that support families in mind, body, and spirit.
Life at Beth-El
Moments from our community.
From food distributions to youth programs and community gatherings, these moments reflect the heart of Beth-El’s work.
Hunger Relief
- Food Pantry every Wednesday from 1:00pm to 5:30pm.
- Weekly farm visits on Thursdays around lunch time.
- Non-perishable food, paper goods, hygiene kits, and clothing for farmworkers.
- Seasonal lunches at the farms with partner organizations.
Access to Education
Cosechando Sueños / Harvesting Dreams
A mentorship program supporting students high school age and above with coaching, mentoring, scholarship opportunities, and help setting personal, academic, and professional goals.
- On-campus partner: Redlands Christian Migrant Association (RCMA).
- Migrant Head Start and public K-8 charter school support.
- Backpacks, school supplies, and new shoes through Back to School programs.
Family Support and Case Management
- Emergency groceries
- Gift cards for special needs
- Clothing closet
- Farmworker support
- Referrals
Access to Healthcare
- On-campus free dental clinic for eligible uninsured neighbors.
- Annual health fairs with quality healthcare providers.
Spiritual Development
- Outdoor Spanish worship services Sunday mornings at 10am.
- Virtual worship services Wednesdays and Fridays.
- Camp scholarships for children and teens.
- Summer Vacation Bible School.
Non-Discrimination Policy
This institution is an equal opportunity provider.
Beth-El Farmworker Ministry does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender expression, age, national origin, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status in any of its activities or operations.
USDA nondiscrimination information can be included here or linked from this section.
Be Part of the Work at Beth-El
Every meal served, every student supported, and every family helped is made possible through the generosity of donors and the dedication of volunteers.
Whether you give, serve, or simply reach out, you are helping us continue this mission in our community.
