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GRACE
EPISCOPAL OUTREACH PROJECTS – 2012 This is an outline
of what the Outreach Committee hopes to achieve this year, with your help -
Year
Round efforts -
“The Holidays are Over”: Thank you ALL for your wonderful response during
the holidays in giving to those who had less than enough. But now consider that many people are hungry even after
the celebrations are over - we still encourage your non-perishable food donations throughout the year. Think
while you clean out your pantry, or do a major shopping: A bag of rice here, and extra can of vegetables there make those
empty tummies happy. Leave in the collection basket in the narthex.
“And
Now for Something Completely Different”: Hillcrest Congregational Church asking for volunteers
to help in their Clothing Room, providing clean, usable outfits even for entire families. Rev. Jill’s has
approved posting a list for sign-ups to assist, especially on the first two Wednesdays of each month. Along with
this project, we have been invited to join with other churches in combined outreach projects that a single congregation may
not be able to fulfill alone. More info as we meet to discuss these efforts - This is an exciting opportunity
to broaden our outreach by the power of many working together! “Books
for the Barrio”: Books and various supplies are collected for schools in the Philippines and elsewhere. There is a list of needs in a small basket in the narthex
with a purple bow on it. Year Round Project See Mary Canale for details.
February, March 2012 “It’s Still Winter”: Help someone keep warm during these still unpredictable days / nights until spring comes -
Please donate new or gently used hats, socks, and scarves to be distributed to those that need them. Leave
in the basket in the narthex over the next couple of weeks until mid-March. Thanks for your generous support!
“Souper Supper / Movie”: Toss it out and
see who is interested? A new outreach event proposed - to have a congenial soup and/or salad supper, maybe watch
a movie together, and raise funds for outreach programs. Does this strike anyone as a fun idea?
“People Feeding People”:
Sandy Taylor and other volunteers feed those who are in need every Saturday night, rain or shine, in downtown Martinez. Anyone wanting to assist, please review the sign-up sheet
posted by the St. Christopher’s Guild, or contact Sandy.
April
2012 Date TBD - virtual Garage Sale!
Has the Spring Cleaning bug nipped you yet? Are you ready to release all those treasures (or to the uninitiated
- junque) that have been filling your closets and garages? The Juvenile Hall thrift shop needs those items! The volunteers
at the Hall Closet would love to share the things you no longer want with others. Soon, we will publish a date where you may
bring your stuff to church, and we will make sure it is delivered to the Hall for you.
JUNE 2012 - “How Many Popsicles?”
Volunteer teams plan menus, buy food, and cook evening meals for clients of Shelter, Inc. during a summer week in June so
more volunteers can participate. Some of the rewards are trading recipes, fun kitchen interaction, and knowing that you have
really helped meet an important need. If you can’t help during the Christmas holidays because of holiday
commitments, this may be your option.
SEPTEMBER
2012 “Teacher, the Dog Ate My Homework”: Martinez Junior High always appreciates the backpacks we
give for needy students, filled with the materials necessary to do their school work. Think of the things your children would
need, and pick up a little extra during those great deals before school starts. More details to follow in late
August / early September.
November - December
2012 “Adopt-a-Family”: Last year, our church adopted 8 families, a total of 28 people, and gave them
a wonderful variety of gifts to help make their Christmas merry. Starting from lists that described the family members, we
shop and wrap like little elves! We hope to accomplish even more this year, with the thoughtful generosity of
your donations.
December 2012 - January 2013 “Cooking for Shelter, Inc II”:
Volunteer teams plan menus, buy food, and cook evening meals for clients of Shelter, Inc. during the week between Christmas
and New Year. This has been our traditional week for many years – always great response because we love to share during
the holidays. If you can’t make the summer week, this is an enjoyable time, too.
Comments on this or any of the programs are most welcome,
please respond to Chandra Damele, chandradamele@yahoo.com
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