I hope you heard Rev. Lance Marshall and Dr. Mike Marshall share the exciting news on Sunday morning about current giving here at FUMCFW. June was another solid month, with donations for 2020 ministries coming in over June 2019 gifts. Thank you!
They also noted another remarkable outcome. Total giving — giving that supports designated ministries, programs, Next90, and partner organizations — is up an amazing 30% in comparison to the prior year. Thank you!
In particular, I want to thank you for your recent generosity directed at the Methodist Justice Ministry (MJM) and First Street Methodist Mission (FSMM). Like many local community nonprofits, these two organizations have seen a surge in need for assistance.
Thanks to your kindness in the way of financial resources and in-kind donations of food and household items, First Street Methodist Mission is providing life-saving services to families and the homeless. From March 15 through the present:
- The Mission has had 2,875 family visits for two bags of quality groceries, including fresh produce and frozen meats. This represents 11,140 adults and children being fed — a 65% increase in traffic over this same time period last year.
- Our homeless community also benefitted from 1018 sack lunches.
- Your financial gifts have made it possible for 53 households to avoid homelessness by providing rent and utility assistance. Again, this is an increase of 36% over 2019.
- The Infant Formula program, one of the original programs, has served 211 moms and babies, providing them formula and diapers.
- In June alone, the Mission distributed 34 tons of food. (That is a huge number to take in! #FIRSTCHURCHPROUD/#FIRSTSTREETMISSIONPROUD)
Methodist Justice Ministry sadly has not lacked for clients this year either. As many of you know, this life-saving organization provides legal representation, advocacy, and ongoing support to families who have experienced domestic violence. Covid19, not only is jeopardizing the health of individuals, but many children and adults who are stuck at home are also finding themselves in very dangerous and abusive environments.
Rev. Brooks Harrington, Founder and Legal Director, recently reported that since mid-March, MJM has added 300 requests for services to their already overwhelming caseload. Not only are their clients receiving pro-bono legal services in the way of court representation and restraining orders, but many also find themselves in need of financial assistance for rent, utilities, and other critical needs. Since the pandemic swept through Tarrant County, MJM has also, thanks to your generosity, provided almost $40,000 in aid.
First Church’s response to these two organizations should not be surprising, because after all, that is part of our DNA – putting discipleship into heartfelt action.
It is my privilege to express a most sincere and loving THANK YOU on behalf of the First Street Methodist Mission and Methodist Justice Ministry!
Together through Christ,
Nancy Fisher
Director of Stewardship
