Christmas Appeal Donations
Dear HUMC Members and Friends,
As we enter the season of gift giving, we are reminded that for many people, meeting basic needs remains a challenge. As a community of faith in mission the holidays offer a time to highlight organizations and offer support. We ask that you prayerfully consider giving as you are able. This year the Christmas appeal will support the following organizations:
DuPage Pads (Public Action to Deliver Shelter): HUMC has been a friend to Pads for more than 37 years. Originally providing shelter in local churches, Pads has evolved into offering wrap-around support at their IHC (Interim Housing Complex) in Downers Grove. The IHC houses 300 clients, including 100 children, and provides support to both individuals and families. Clients receive health services and employment support with the goal of securing housing and independence. Last year, 644 individuals from the IHC were moved to stable housing. This summer Pads finished installing a commercial kitchen and our church members are excited to be back cooking together to serve the PADS community. Recently, HUMC has renewed our commitment to providing 150 meals a month. Each month we work to deliver a nutritious meal which includes fresh fruit and vegetables. The rising cost of groceries has been a challenge, but we have been able to provide these meals for approximately $400 per month.
HCS Family Services: Since 1937, HCS Family Services has been helping feed residents of Dupage County and the surrounding areas. While Dupage County is one of the wealthiest areas in the state, it is also home to the second largest food insecure area. In northern Illinois, one in six children face hunger. Given the rising cost of food and the vulnerability of SNAP benefits, the services HCS Family Services provide are more vital than ever. HCS Family Services operates food pantries in Hinsdale and Willowbrook. Both pantries offer a variety of fresh and frozen foods as well as diapers and personal care items. More than 400 people visit their food pantries each week. While much of their food comes from donations, HCS Family Services is part of the efficient food bank system so each financial donation has a tremendous impact. They are able to turn $1 into $8 worth of groceries.
Grace Children’s Hospital: Grace Children’s Hospital was founded in 1967 in Port-auPrince and is recognized as Haiti’s leading medical facility dedicated to the treatment of children with tuberculosis. Their community health workers and volunteers care for thousands of children in their inpatient ward and outpatient clinics. Inpatient stays average three months, during which the children can also attend school. Both children and adults living in the economically disadvantaged communities around the hospital receive vaccinations, prenatal care, and other basic health services. As one of the poorest countries in the Western Hemisphere, approximately 80% of Haitians live on less than $1 a day. Families receive all these services for a one-time fee of eight dollars, yet so many cannot afford even this much. Grace Children’s Hospital never turns a child or family away, regardless of ability to pay.
MYSI (formerly Methodist Youth Services): Started by a group of Methodists 60 years ago, MYSI provides support for children, adults, seniors and families living in Cook County and the surrounding areas. Focus areas of this accredited non-profit include child welfare, community mental health services, clinical case management, and counseling. Their programming aims to strengthen lives, encouraging full independence and economic success. For example, their Transitional Living program provides housing and supportive case management for young adults 17-21. They also have programs for youth ages 18-21 who were raised in foster care but need help navigating the transition to independent living.
Please prayerfully consider giving as you are able.
To donate, please make checks payable to HUMC with Christmas Appeal in the memo line or using the button below.
Your support is greatly appreciated,
Caroline Godellas, Missions Work Area