At the Franklin Township Board of Supervisors meeting this week, the Rev. Kenneth Ogden of the People's Evangelical Congregational Church was present to inform the board of supervisors that new services are being offered in the township.

Ogden said the congregation of St. Peter's Evangelical Congregation has ceased to meet.Subsequently, the church building located at 177 Main Road in Lehighton has been placed under the care of the congregation of the People's Evangelical Congregational Church, which meets at 216 Wagner St., Lehighton.Wil Hoffman will be the managing director of St. Peter's Community Resource Center.Ogden said, "The St. Peter's Building will be a church-owned Christian multiservice resourcing center."This facility will provide aid to any residents from the Lehighton Area School District, Ogden said.Some services offered: peer-to-peer groups, such as Al-Anon or depression support groups; referral service to assist people in need of services and assistance in maneuvering the maze of governmental and social services. There will be nonprofit space in which groups can hold meetings and events.Starting in January, on the last Saturday of each month, a "bare necessities pantry" will be open to assist Lehighton Area School District residents in need with toiletry items, such as toilet paper, soap, toothpaste and other donated goods.The center will also offer Christian Church services, through Bible study, youth group and other worship opportunities.