The project which became Montopolis Friendship Community Center began in January, 1956, organized by the Women’s Societies of Christian Service of the Methodist Churches of Austin. The initial effort provided financial and volunteer help to the Emmanuel Methodist Church kindergarten at 200 Brushy.

 After one year, the group looked for an area of greater need, since that neighborhood was served by several agencies. In Montopolis they found an area isolated from most agency services. The need for help there was deemed urgent by the schools, pokice, City Planning Department and Parks and Recreation Dept.

 The women prevailed upon the School Board to allow them to use an old school building in which they began the first bi-lingual kindertarten program in Austin. To finance this effort, a thrift store was opened adjacent to the school offering good used items to the community. A Mothers Club promoted parent involvement. On Sept. 26, 1957, the project was officially named the Montopolis Friendship Community Center.

 Until June, 1961 the program operated in the school building. When that property was turned over to Parks and recreation for a new swimming pool/playground, the women and MFCC axquired title to the school building. With help from Parks and Recreation, they moved the building several hundred yards east to 403 Vargas Rd. It was considered important that the project remain at the same location.

 New needs continued to arise, and in 1965, 1100 square feet were added to the school for a health clinic and community room. In 1982 a second building for two new classrooms was built to house the school children.

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 EARLY CHILDHOOD: Up to 20 three and four-year-olds have a "head start" with a bi-lingual early childhood program, staffed with a teacher and an aide Monday – Friday from 8:30am – 2:00pm.  There are field trips, family events, emphasis on language development and positive self image. Some low income families need scholarships for a child to attend, at $25 monthly.

 MOTHER’S DAY OUT: Drop-in childcare for two – through five-year-olds is provided while mothers shop, go to school, and keep appointments. This includes outside play, snacks, and play with one another. This group meets on Wednesday and Friday mornings,  9:00-11:00a.m., under the direction of an aide and volunteers.  Cost is $1.00 per child per session.

 SALES ROOM: Open the first and third saturday of the month, 9:00am-2:00pm.  This serves the community by providing good used clothing and household items at low prices. Free items are supplied to the needy. Volunteers staff the Sales Room, and the money is used for other MFCC programs.

 WESLEY NURSE: TheWesley nurse from Parker Lane UMC visits the Center the second and third Fridays of the month from 10:00-11:30a.m.  The nurse does helth screenings and provides health information and referrals.

SENIOR ACTIVITIES PROJECT:  Seasoned Citizens meet at the center each second and third Friday from 9:30-11:30a.m.  They socialize and enjoy games such as bingo..

EXERCISE CLASS:  Starting on October 25, 2004 this group meets Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 1:30-2:30pm under the direction of the Wesley Nurse

FAIRWAY APARTMENT STORY TIME:  Stories and games and a snack are provided on Wednesday afternoons for the pre-school children at the nearby Fairway Apartments.

LAYETTES:  (which include diapers) for babies of new mothers needing assistance are provided upon request of local agencies.

 BUILDING USE: Many community parties and meetings are scheduled in our Colorado Hall, such as birthday parties, showers, and other events. A $10 refundable deposit as well as a $15 fee is charged.

 VELMA & BOB MILES SCHOLARSHIP: Money is offered annually to a high school graduate in the Montopolis community for college or trade school. Emphasis is on need and above average grades, as recommended by AISD or DelValle ISD

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MFCC is funded by: Austin area United Methodist Women’s groups, the Austin District Mission Board, and gifts from churches and individuals. It is an Advance Special for the District as well as the Southwest Texas Annual Conference. The annual budget requires ongoing and annual commitments.
 
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