Depew Community Action Team

Our Mission Statement: The Depew Community Action Team is a catalyst for positive change in our community, facilitating partnerships between residents and businesses to identify and address issues of chronic hunger and poverty.

Founded in 2018, DCAT grew out of Lord of Life's Matthew's Table ministry that provides a delicious, free meal each month for our community.  Church volunteers plan and prepare a 3-course meal which is served in the Depew Senior Center.  Everyone sits down together for food and conversation.  We provide entertainment and it becomes a fun community event!  As relationships have been established, our neighbors have shared their needs and desires for their community.  DCAT includes members of the community, Lord of Life, local businesses, Tri-Community Food Pantry and representation from both Legislator John Bruso and Assemblywoman Monica Wallace's offices.  We meet monthly and have a vision for a community center that will include a laundromat, community consignment shop and coffee shop, along with space for future expansion for additional services.

DCAT Board members include:

Paul Burdick

92 Norris Avenue

Lancaster, NY 14086

Audrey Hamernik, Treasurer

87 Mary Lou Lane

Depew, NY 14043

Jesse Nikonowicz, Vice President

138 Grant Street

Depew, NY 14043

William Patterson, Secretary

231 Branch Street

Lockport, NY 14094

Rev. Deborah L. Turley, President

4737 Brentwood Drive

Williamsville, NY 14221

Denise Williams

4770 Ransom Road

Clarence NY 14031

DCAT meets on the third Tuesday of each month via Zoom.  Anyone interested in hearing what we are up to or participating in our planning and projects is welcome.  For more information contact Pastor Deborah Turley at 668-8000.

The vision of DCAT is to build a community center for every resident of Depew.  We have listened to the community and have heard the needs: an expanded food pantry, a low-cost laundromat, a community consignment shop, a place for neighbors to gather for a cup of coffee and conversation, and space for other local businesses and services that will enhance our neighborhoods.  Our center will include space for entertainment, and expanded space for Lord of Life's Matthew's Table Community dinners so everyone can join in the fun!

We are in the process of purchasing 570 Gould, which has been abandoned for over 10 years.  This 20,000 square foot facility will be completely renovated and will be handicap accessible.  We are currently preparing the building by cleaning it out and giving tours. Once the funds are raised, construction will begin.  We hope that all the residents of Depew will come and see, and feel as if this is your community center.