Boston mayor Tom Menino declared October 22, 2000 “Boston Van Ministry Day” in honor of the 15th anniversary of the community outreach program. The van ministry, staffed by 300 volunteers, serves communities throughout northern New England and provides not only blood pressure screenings but clothes and food as well. 

The ministry was founded by Seventh-day Adventist lay member Rita Vital, who relied solely on fund-raising and volunteers.

Massachusetts governor Paul Cellucci also sent anniversary congratulations to Vital, who has retired from the van ministry.  Local Adventists John and Julie Ferraro will take over the day-to-day running of the van program.