The Salem Community Service Council (SCSC) was founded in 1969 by Rev. F. Herbert Skeete and members of Salem United Methodist Church as a nonprofit organization dedicated to addressing hunger, housing instability, and educational needs in the Harlem community. From its earliest days, SCSC has been rooted in a commitment to serving neighbors with dignity and care.
In 2014, under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Marvin A. Moss and SCSC Director Ms. Barbara Miller, the organization refined its mission to focus more directly on food insecurity. During this time, SCSC significantly expanded its weekly food pantry and warm meal programs through partnerships with United Way, Food Bank for NYC, City Harvest, the City of New York, and other key organizations working to combat hunger.
In 2020, during the COVID-19 crisis, SCSC partnered with Rethink Food to reimagine and scale the delivery of warm meals across Harlem. This collaboration introduced innovative approaches to food distribution that not only met urgent pandemic needs but also shaped long-term strategies for addressing food insecurity in the community.
In 2024, following the passing of longtime Director Ms. Barbara Miller, Rev. Gavin Rogers was appointed Executive Director. Under his leadership, SCSC has continued to strengthen its operations and adapt to the evolving needs of the community. In 2025, SCSC expanded its reach by launching additional satellite distribution sites beyond Salem UMC, including Grace UMC, First Spanish United Methodist Church, and Mt. Calvary–St. Mark’s UMC, broadening its impact across Harlem.
Today, SCSC remains guided by a dedicated Board of Directors, including Rev. Noel Chin (chair), Thomasina McMillan (Treasurer), Renice Taylor, Mark Skeete, April Callender, and William Thomas, as it continues its mission and oversight to provide essential food access and community support throughout New York City.