We are coming into the season when we all ponder every needful thing, both in our own lives and in those of our loved ones.  While reading this weekend I came across a poem that expresses my thoughts exactly.  Concerning acts of compassion, Emily Dickinson writes

“If I can stop one heart from breaking,

I shall not live in vain;

If I can ease one life the aching,

Or cool one pain,

Or help one fainting robin

Unto his nest again,

I shall not live in vain.”

Jefferson County Community Ministries has been relieving sorrows, aches, pains, and hunger for many in Jefferson County since 1983.  We at JCCM love what we do in helping others and appreciate all that you have done to support our efforts all these years.

In response to those who ask, “How are you doing?” I respond that we continue to serve and provide for those in need more effectively and efficiently than ever before.  We are witnessing astounding growth in client needs this year.  Since June we have seen an increase of 72% in families served, a 209% growth in individuals served, and a 76% increase in food distribution.  The food is literally flying off our shelves.  And we are helping our clients with only half the volunteer staff available prior to Covid-19.

We are having wonderful success in teaching our clients how to be self-reliant.  There are too many stories to mention now, but I will share that through our great community partnerships we have placed several women fleeing abusive partners into safety.  We have helped several clients into addiction recovery programs.  We continue to feed and clothe anyone in need.

JCCM staff and our partners are accomplishing wonderful things.  Will you consider joining us in our mission of community compassionate service?   We desperately need food stuffs and any who can volunteer some time.  Our list of needful things is on our website, (jccm.us) along with a button to click if you can volunteer.

May the Lord bless you all,

Keith Lowry

Executive Director, JCCM