The Community Foundation provides grants to many organizations with true needs. On the flip side, many of these organizations that receive grants provide hope to people in the community that have true needs. It is this altruistic, outward thinking that has made the Living Waters Open Bible Church in Busti an asset to the community to which it ministers.

The Living Waters Open Bible Church has been in existence since 1973 and originally began as a Christian Crisis Telephone Hotline in Jamestown. After years of expanding its programming and growth in attendance, the Church moved to a permanent facility in Busti in 1983. What started in 1973 with 12 Christian college students reaching out to lost souls has since grown to a ministry of encouragement to all local communities. This growth has led the Church to not only minister to those seeking hope, but also to provide a Christian budgeting and family education, food, clothing, and networking for the less fortunate through the “People That Care Center and Pantry,” actively ministering to those held in local jails and correctional facilities, and also to children from low-income families in Jamestown.  

As with any organization, the Living Waters Open Bible Church is not without its own needs and challenges. In 1985, two years after moving to its Busti facility, the Church was devastated by a tornado that ravaged many parts of Chautauqua County. Through an outpouring of support from other area churches, Sunday schools, and individuals, the Church was rebuilt. Yet, weather erosion to the building in recent years prompted the congregation to begin a renovation project.

Thanks to the Community Foundation for funding through the receipt of two separate Karl Peterson Grants in 2005 and 2006, the generous support from the community, and contributions of area contractors and builders, the church exterior renovations are on schedule. If you would like more information on the Living Waters Open Bible Church and are wondering how you can help, call 664-6789, Fridays from 9:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M.