What's New at Lake Christian Ministries
Special Thanks to the Moneta Lions Club
Pictured: LCM Executive Director, Jane Winters, and Moneta Lions Club President Delmar Bailey stand in front of the Capps & Community Charity Challenge Event Thermometer
A special thanks goes out to the Moneta Lions Club for making a $2,000 donation to serve as an Over the Top Matching Fund Sponsor for the successful Capps & Community Charity Challenge online giving week. Proceeds from the effort support Lake Christian Ministries, the Agape Center and SML Good Neighbors and the services these organizations provide to assist local families who are struggling with the economic impact of COVID-19. Other Over the Top Matching Sponsors included: Carol & Bill Harding; Jon Atchue & Amy Bird; Coveside Consulting, LLC; Joan Griffith – Keller Williams Realty; and a group of generous anonymous supporters. Collectively the Over the Top Matching Sponsors provided a second match of $40,000 to encourage the community to reach a new goal of $280,000. The very successful online giving week closed on October 17 with a total of $287,273 in donations.
Help Families in Need through the Capps & Community Charity Challenge
The Capps & Community Charity Challenge, which runs from October 12 through October 17, seeks to raise funds to help the many families in the Smith Mountain Lake community who are struggling with the economic impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.
The online collaborative effort among Capps Building Center, a group of supporting sponsors, and three local charities will offer a $1 for $1 match for donations up to $100,000. At the end of this week, the charities—Lake Christian Ministries, The Agape Center and SML Good Neighbors—hope to generate $200,000 in proceeds to help our neighbors in need.
Your donation can assist those in our community who are faced with job loss, inability to pay rent, hunger and poverty. Go to smlcharitychallege.org before midnight on October 17 and follow the simple instructions on the website. Together, we can support our local families in need.
The online collaborative effort among Capps Building Center, a group of supporting sponsors, and three local charities will offer a $1 for $1 match for donations up to $100,000. At the end of this week, the charities—Lake Christian Ministries, The Agape Center and SML Good Neighbors—hope to generate $200,000 in proceeds to help our neighbors in need.
Your donation can assist those in our community who are faced with job loss, inability to pay rent, hunger and poverty. Go to smlcharitychallege.org before midnight on October 17 and follow the simple instructions on the website. Together, we can support our local families in need.
Community and charities help neighbors in need through online giving week October 12-17
(From left) Lisa Lietz, executive director, SML Good Neighbors; Sue Lipscomb, executive director, The Agape Center; and Jane Winters, executive director, Lake Christian Ministries, represent the three charities that will share the proceeds of the October 12-17 Capps and Community Charity Challenge.
The economic fallout of Covid-19 has created a crisis for many families struggling with poverty in the Smith Mountain Lake community. For this reason, Capps Home Building Center and a group of supporting sponsors have come together to issue a $100,000 matching fund, online challenge to the community to support three local charities and our neighbors in need.
Lake Christian Ministries, The Agape Center and SML Good Neighbors will share the proceeds of this effort, which runs from October 12 -17. Capps donated a significant portion of the $100,000 and generous area businesses and donors provided the remainder. If the community matches this amount, the three charities will split $200,000 to fund their programs and services impacted by the pandemic.
“We chose the Capps and Community Charity Challenge event for one simple reason,” said Bruce Shelton, president of Capps Home Building Center. “The global pandemic has impacted our counties more than we ever thought. These non-profit charities are taxed with providing increased services to families struggling from the impact of the pandemic, so we felt it was a wonderful time to get the community engaged. Jump on board and let’s help these non-profits assist our fellow community members.”
All three charities deliver vital community services. “At Lake Christian Ministries, we provide food assistance, financial aid, dental and clothing support, household items and other services to help people weather a crisis. In addition, our New Tomorrows program provides a partner to help participants set goals, as well as education and job assistance and placement,” said Jane Winters, Lake Christian Ministries executive director. “Our goal is to work with those struggling with poverty to help them feel connected, get the resources they need and have the hope to move toward a more secure future.”
“The Agape Center serves about 800 families each month, providing food, clothing, household items and financial aid. Our main focus is our mentoring program in which clients meet one-on-one with their mentor and share their concerns and needs in a supportive and loving environment,” said Sue Lipscomb, executive director, The Agape Center.
SML Good Neighbors Executive Director Lisa Lietz said, “The pandemic caused us to change our traditional in-person programs to a virtual summer day camp and a virtual academy program this year. We also provided weekend food bags for students in Bedford and Franklin counties, which included six meals for the weekend and a handpicked book for each child to keep. Going forward, we plan to serve students through online tutoring and enrichment programs.”
The Capps and Community Charity Challenge is truly a collaborative effort between the three charities and the local community. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those in need during these difficult times.
Starting October 12, you can make a donation by following the simple instructions on the Charity Challenge website, smlcharitychallenge.org, through October 17. There also will be a Donor Hospitality event on Wednesday, October 14 from 11 am to 1 pm in front of Capps garden center. Volunteers will be on site to assist with online donations, and CJ’s Coffee and Sandwich Shop will provide doughnuts, coffee and bottled water for donors.
Lake Christian Ministries, The Agape Center and SML Good Neighbors will share the proceeds of this effort, which runs from October 12 -17. Capps donated a significant portion of the $100,000 and generous area businesses and donors provided the remainder. If the community matches this amount, the three charities will split $200,000 to fund their programs and services impacted by the pandemic.
“We chose the Capps and Community Charity Challenge event for one simple reason,” said Bruce Shelton, president of Capps Home Building Center. “The global pandemic has impacted our counties more than we ever thought. These non-profit charities are taxed with providing increased services to families struggling from the impact of the pandemic, so we felt it was a wonderful time to get the community engaged. Jump on board and let’s help these non-profits assist our fellow community members.”
All three charities deliver vital community services. “At Lake Christian Ministries, we provide food assistance, financial aid, dental and clothing support, household items and other services to help people weather a crisis. In addition, our New Tomorrows program provides a partner to help participants set goals, as well as education and job assistance and placement,” said Jane Winters, Lake Christian Ministries executive director. “Our goal is to work with those struggling with poverty to help them feel connected, get the resources they need and have the hope to move toward a more secure future.”
“The Agape Center serves about 800 families each month, providing food, clothing, household items and financial aid. Our main focus is our mentoring program in which clients meet one-on-one with their mentor and share their concerns and needs in a supportive and loving environment,” said Sue Lipscomb, executive director, The Agape Center.
SML Good Neighbors Executive Director Lisa Lietz said, “The pandemic caused us to change our traditional in-person programs to a virtual summer day camp and a virtual academy program this year. We also provided weekend food bags for students in Bedford and Franklin counties, which included six meals for the weekend and a handpicked book for each child to keep. Going forward, we plan to serve students through online tutoring and enrichment programs.”
The Capps and Community Charity Challenge is truly a collaborative effort between the three charities and the local community. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those in need during these difficult times.
Starting October 12, you can make a donation by following the simple instructions on the Charity Challenge website, smlcharitychallenge.org, through October 17. There also will be a Donor Hospitality event on Wednesday, October 14 from 11 am to 1 pm in front of Capps garden center. Volunteers will be on site to assist with online donations, and CJ’s Coffee and Sandwich Shop will provide doughnuts, coffee and bottled water for donors.
Capps and community join together to benefit SML charities
(From left) Ryan Cappellari, Capps’ chief operating officer; Lisa Lietz, SML Good Neighbors executive director; Sue Lipscomb, Agape Center executive director; Jane Winters, Lake Christian Ministries executive director; and Bruce Shelton, president of Capps, are working together to raise funds to help those in the SML area most impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Capps Home Building Center and a group of supporting sponsors have joined together to issue a $100,000 challenge to the Smith Mountain Lake community. Lake Christian Ministries, The Agape Center and SML Good Neighbors will share the proceeds of this effort, which runs from October 12 through October 17. The Capps & Community Charity Challenge will offer a $1 for $1 match for donations up to $100,000 made through this online giving week.
“The team at Capps Home Building Center created the fundraiser as a way of giving back to the community that has supported our business for more than 40 years,” said Ryan Cappellari, Capps’ chief operating officer. Capps donated a significant portion of the $100,000 and generous area businesses and donors provided the remainder. If the community matches this amount, the three charities will split $200,000 in proceeds.
“Current events have impacted our community in ways that we could never have imagined: joblessness, homelessness, hunger and poverty,” said Capps President Bruce Shelton. “We are calling on our community to lend their financial support for the non-profits addressing the most urgent needs of our area.” The Agape Center and Lake Christian Ministries provide food, financial assistance, and job assistance, while SML Good Neighbors supports local students with summer and after-school education and food assistance.
The weeklong collaborative effort among challenge sponsors, the three charities and the community will raise funds to replace the charities’ annual fundraising events cancelled due to the pandemic. Lake Christian Ministries, for example, cancelled the September 2020 SML Walk to End Poverty, which last year generated $50,000 to support services to those in need.
"The Agape Center is so blessed to be a part of the Capps & Community Charity Challenge - three charities working together to help local families in need. Our clients are overwhelmed during this difficult time, and we are grateful that the community is stepping up to collectively help us meet those needs," said Sue Lipscomb, Agape Center executive director.
“During these difficult times, we all need each other more than ever. Working together with Lake Christian Ministries and The Agape Center on this event, as well as having the support from Capps and other sponsors, is a testament of the resilience of our community,” said Lisa Lietz, executive director, SML Good Neighbors.
"It is wonderful to have all three charities working together to raise funds collaboratively to address the needs of local families who are struggling with the economic impact of the Covid-19 pandemic,’” said Jane Winters, executive director, Lake Christian Ministries. “So many people have asked how they can help. The best thing you can do is to give during the week of October 12 – 17, so your donation can be doubled. We need your help to meet this challenge."
To make a donation during the week of October 12 through 17, go to smlcharitychallenge.org and follow the simple instructions on the website. The website will go live on October 12. There also will be a Donor Hospitality event on Wednesday, October 14, from 11 am to 1 pm in front of Capps garden center, with volunteers on site to assist with online donations. Doughnuts, coffee and bottled water, supplied by CJ’s Coffee and Sandwich Shop, will be available to donors.
“The team at Capps Home Building Center created the fundraiser as a way of giving back to the community that has supported our business for more than 40 years,” said Ryan Cappellari, Capps’ chief operating officer. Capps donated a significant portion of the $100,000 and generous area businesses and donors provided the remainder. If the community matches this amount, the three charities will split $200,000 in proceeds.
“Current events have impacted our community in ways that we could never have imagined: joblessness, homelessness, hunger and poverty,” said Capps President Bruce Shelton. “We are calling on our community to lend their financial support for the non-profits addressing the most urgent needs of our area.” The Agape Center and Lake Christian Ministries provide food, financial assistance, and job assistance, while SML Good Neighbors supports local students with summer and after-school education and food assistance.
The weeklong collaborative effort among challenge sponsors, the three charities and the community will raise funds to replace the charities’ annual fundraising events cancelled due to the pandemic. Lake Christian Ministries, for example, cancelled the September 2020 SML Walk to End Poverty, which last year generated $50,000 to support services to those in need.
"The Agape Center is so blessed to be a part of the Capps & Community Charity Challenge - three charities working together to help local families in need. Our clients are overwhelmed during this difficult time, and we are grateful that the community is stepping up to collectively help us meet those needs," said Sue Lipscomb, Agape Center executive director.
“During these difficult times, we all need each other more than ever. Working together with Lake Christian Ministries and The Agape Center on this event, as well as having the support from Capps and other sponsors, is a testament of the resilience of our community,” said Lisa Lietz, executive director, SML Good Neighbors.
"It is wonderful to have all three charities working together to raise funds collaboratively to address the needs of local families who are struggling with the economic impact of the Covid-19 pandemic,’” said Jane Winters, executive director, Lake Christian Ministries. “So many people have asked how they can help. The best thing you can do is to give during the week of October 12 – 17, so your donation can be doubled. We need your help to meet this challenge."
To make a donation during the week of October 12 through 17, go to smlcharitychallenge.org and follow the simple instructions on the website. The website will go live on October 12. There also will be a Donor Hospitality event on Wednesday, October 14, from 11 am to 1 pm in front of Capps garden center, with volunteers on site to assist with online donations. Doughnuts, coffee and bottled water, supplied by CJ’s Coffee and Sandwich Shop, will be available to donors.
Willard Companies’ food drives help stock LCM pantry
Lake Christian Ministries volunteer Jim Laseter loads food donations into the LCM van during the July 27 Willard Companies’ Food Drive to support LCM’s food assistance program during the COVID-19 pandemic. The company sponsored food drives on the last Saturday of the past four months, which collected 4,022 lbs. of food supplies.
“We want to thank the wonderful staff at The Willard Companies for organizing and promoting these community food drives during a time when demand was high and food was in short supply. Our deep appreciation also goes out to everyone who volunteered for the events and donated food to help those in need in the Smith Mountain Lake community,” commented Jane Winters, LCM executive director.
“We want to thank the wonderful staff at The Willard Companies for organizing and promoting these community food drives during a time when demand was high and food was in short supply. Our deep appreciation also goes out to everyone who volunteered for the events and donated food to help those in need in the Smith Mountain Lake community,” commented Jane Winters, LCM executive director.
Lake Christian Ministries announces service plan for
pandemic recovery Phase 3, beginning August 3
pandemic recovery Phase 3, beginning August 3
As Virginia enters Phase 3 of the COVID-19 recovery period, Lake Christian Ministries (LCM) continues to do everything possible to keep its neighbors (clients), volunteers and staff safe while providing essential services to those in need in the Smith Mountain Lake region. Beginning August 3, 2020, LCM staff will continue to monitor the temperature of everyone who enters the building; those who are fever free will be given a mask to wear inside the facility. Steps will be taken to limit the number of people in the building. Routine hand washing will be encouraged, and all shopping carts, work surfaces, transport vehicles and service equipment will be disinfected periodically during the service day.
Beginning August 3, LCM will adopt the following safety plan to provide curbside food assistance, financial aid, clothing and New Tomorrows services:
• Food assistance will be provided by curbside drive-through delivery twice weekly on Mondays and Fridays from 9 am until noon in the LCM parking lot located at 13157 Old Moneta Road in Moneta.
• Financial aid, clothing support and New Tomorrows services will be provided by appointment weekly on Wednesdays and Fridays from 9 am to noon. Neighbors may call 540-297-3214 to schedule appointments.
• Clothing support will be available without an appointment on Wednesdays and Fridays from 9 am to noon. There will be a capacity limit of eight neighbors in the front lobby waiting area and six neighbors in the clothing area with a 20-minute limit for clothing shopping.
As it has since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, LCM will continue to monitor pandemic information from the state and local offices and adjust its service plan as needed to keep volunteers, staff and neighbors safe and healthy.
Beginning August 3, LCM will adopt the following safety plan to provide curbside food assistance, financial aid, clothing and New Tomorrows services:
• Food assistance will be provided by curbside drive-through delivery twice weekly on Mondays and Fridays from 9 am until noon in the LCM parking lot located at 13157 Old Moneta Road in Moneta.
• Financial aid, clothing support and New Tomorrows services will be provided by appointment weekly on Wednesdays and Fridays from 9 am to noon. Neighbors may call 540-297-3214 to schedule appointments.
• Clothing support will be available without an appointment on Wednesdays and Fridays from 9 am to noon. There will be a capacity limit of eight neighbors in the front lobby waiting area and six neighbors in the clothing area with a 20-minute limit for clothing shopping.
As it has since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, LCM will continue to monitor pandemic information from the state and local offices and adjust its service plan as needed to keep volunteers, staff and neighbors safe and healthy.
Willards Companies Food Drive Benefits LCM Pantry
Lake Christian Ministries’ volunteers load donated food supplies into the LCM van during the May 30 food drive sponsored by the Willard Companies to benefit LCM’s emergency food pantry services during the COVID-19 pandemic. Thanks to the generosity of the Smith Mountain Lake community, LCM collected 1,476 lbs. of food, nearly double the amount collected in April.
The final two food drives will be held from 8 am to 2 pm on June 27 and July 25 in the parking lot of Smith Mountain Building Supply in Westlake. Items on the wish list for June 27 are boxed macaroni and cheese, boxed pasta and canned pasta sauce. LCM volunteers wearing masks and gloves will be on site to move items from donors’ trunks to the food truck.
The final two food drives will be held from 8 am to 2 pm on June 27 and July 25 in the parking lot of Smith Mountain Building Supply in Westlake. Items on the wish list for June 27 are boxed macaroni and cheese, boxed pasta and canned pasta sauce. LCM volunteers wearing masks and gloves will be on site to move items from donors’ trunks to the food truck.
Lake Christian Ministries offers increased services
during pandemic Phase 1 recovery period
during pandemic Phase 1 recovery period
Beginning June 1, Lake Christian Ministries (LCM) will provide additional services to assist those in need in Franklin, Bedford and Pittsylvania counties during Phase 1 of the Virginia governor’s COVID-19 pandemic recovery period. In addition to extending curbside food assistance to twice a week on Mondays and Fridays from 9 a.m. to noon, LCM will offer a limited number of financial aid and New Tomorrows appointments each Wednesday from 9 a.m. until noon.
A COVID-19 Safety Plan has been developed with direction from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the health department to enable LCM to offer services with measures in place to reduce the threat of coronavirus exposure to clients, volunteers and staff. This includes taking the temperature of all Neighbors, volunteers and staff before they enter the building; issuing masks and gloves; and maintaining social distancing. The number of people allowed in the building at one time will also be closely monitored.
Guidelines already in place will continue to be followed, such as frequent hand washing and disinfecting solution applied periodically to all food carts, work surfaces, transport vehicles and service equipment. All food donations received from private homes are sprayed with a disinfecting solution and quarantined for 48 hours before they are added to the shelves for distribution. Donations of clothing and furniture are not being accepted until further notice.
“We added two more days to our weekly service because we have recently seen a 30 percent increase in the number of new families who are coming to LCM for food assistance,” said Jane Winters, LCM executive director. “We also expect to see an increase in the number of Neighbors who will need financial assistance for evictions and electric terminations in the coming months, as well as New Tomorrows services for job assistance, education/classes and help navigating community and governmental services. We are hopeful that these additional services will help lessen the impact for those most affected by the economic fallout of COVID-19 and begin to build a path forward for a brighter tomorrow. “
Anyone needing an appointment for financial assistance or New Tomorrows services can call LCM at 540-297-3214 on Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings. Please leave a message if an LCM volunteer is not available to take the call.
A COVID-19 Safety Plan has been developed with direction from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the health department to enable LCM to offer services with measures in place to reduce the threat of coronavirus exposure to clients, volunteers and staff. This includes taking the temperature of all Neighbors, volunteers and staff before they enter the building; issuing masks and gloves; and maintaining social distancing. The number of people allowed in the building at one time will also be closely monitored.
Guidelines already in place will continue to be followed, such as frequent hand washing and disinfecting solution applied periodically to all food carts, work surfaces, transport vehicles and service equipment. All food donations received from private homes are sprayed with a disinfecting solution and quarantined for 48 hours before they are added to the shelves for distribution. Donations of clothing and furniture are not being accepted until further notice.
“We added two more days to our weekly service because we have recently seen a 30 percent increase in the number of new families who are coming to LCM for food assistance,” said Jane Winters, LCM executive director. “We also expect to see an increase in the number of Neighbors who will need financial assistance for evictions and electric terminations in the coming months, as well as New Tomorrows services for job assistance, education/classes and help navigating community and governmental services. We are hopeful that these additional services will help lessen the impact for those most affected by the economic fallout of COVID-19 and begin to build a path forward for a brighter tomorrow. “
Anyone needing an appointment for financial assistance or New Tomorrows services can call LCM at 540-297-3214 on Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings. Please leave a message if an LCM volunteer is not available to take the call.
Lake Christian Ministries offers emergency food assistance
to an extended service area during Coronavirus pandemic
to an extended service area during Coronavirus pandemic
During the Coronavirus pandemic state of emergency, Lake Christian Ministries (LCM) will remain committed to supporting those in need in the Smith Mountain Lake community. During the pandemic, LCM is extending its emergency food assistance to any resident in Franklin and Bedford counties and the lake end of Pittsylvania County who is need of food assistance.
LCM provides "drive through" food assistance service once a week on Mondays from 9 am to 1 pm. During this time, clients will drive into the LCM parking lot and follow traffic directions to receive curbside food assistance. The Monday food service distribution will be conducted in the LCM parking lot located at 13157 Old Moneta Road, Moneta.
In addition to Monday food assistance, LCM is also be providing remote food assistance on the second Thursday of each month from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. in the parking lot of Penhook United Methodist Church located at 29 Morgans Fork Road in Penhook. The next Penhook remote food service will be offered on May14.
In an effort to keep clients and volunteers healthy and safe, the LCM building will be closed to clients until the state of emergency is lifted. Until further notice, all other LCM services—clothing, warehouse, financial aid, and New Tomorrows services—are suspended.
“Demand for LCM food assistance will be high during our Monday service days,” said LCM Executive Director Jane Winters. “We ask that everyone receiving service be patient and kind as volunteers address the new emergency food assistance plan.”
LCM provides "drive through" food assistance service once a week on Mondays from 9 am to 1 pm. During this time, clients will drive into the LCM parking lot and follow traffic directions to receive curbside food assistance. The Monday food service distribution will be conducted in the LCM parking lot located at 13157 Old Moneta Road, Moneta.
In addition to Monday food assistance, LCM is also be providing remote food assistance on the second Thursday of each month from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. in the parking lot of Penhook United Methodist Church located at 29 Morgans Fork Road in Penhook. The next Penhook remote food service will be offered on May14.
In an effort to keep clients and volunteers healthy and safe, the LCM building will be closed to clients until the state of emergency is lifted. Until further notice, all other LCM services—clothing, warehouse, financial aid, and New Tomorrows services—are suspended.
“Demand for LCM food assistance will be high during our Monday service days,” said LCM Executive Director Jane Winters. “We ask that everyone receiving service be patient and kind as volunteers address the new emergency food assistance plan.”
BIG THANK YOU to the AAUW
We would like to extend a BIG THANK YOU to the AAUW membership for donating food to Lake Christian Ministries over the weekend. The COVID-19 Pandemic has caused a shortage of donated food from our food suppliers and a significant increase in food demand from a growing number of neighbors in need. This donation could not have come at a better time. We are blessed to have a generous and compassionate community! - commented Jane Winters, Lake Christian Ministries.
Lake Christian Ministries Emergency Food Assistance Service
During Coronavirus Pandemic School Closure
During Coronavirus Pandemic School Closure
Easter Dinner Distribution cancelled for April 4
During the Coronavirus pandemic state of emergency, Lake Christian Ministries (LCM) will remain committed to serving eligible neighbors in need with the following food assistance procedure.
LCM will provide "drive through" food assistance once a week on Mondays from 9 am to 1 pm. During this time, clients will drive into the LCM parking lot and follow traffic directions to receive curbside food assistance. LCM clients are eligible for food assistance one time each month. The Monday food service distribution will be conducted in the LCM parking lot located at 13157 Old Moneta Road, Moneta.
In order to maximize the pantry’s food supply, LCM is cancelling the distribution of Easter Dinner food boxes that were scheduled for Saturday, April 4.
In an effort to keep LCM clients and volunteers healthy and safe, the LCM building will be closed to clients until the state of emergency is lifted. Until this time, all other LCM services—clothing, warehouse, financial aid, and New Tomorrows services—are suspended.
“Demand for LCM food assistance will be high during our Monday service days,” said LCM Executive Director Jane Winters. “We ask that everyone receiving service be patient and kind as volunteers address the new emergency food assistance plan.”
LCM will provide "drive through" food assistance once a week on Mondays from 9 am to 1 pm. During this time, clients will drive into the LCM parking lot and follow traffic directions to receive curbside food assistance. LCM clients are eligible for food assistance one time each month. The Monday food service distribution will be conducted in the LCM parking lot located at 13157 Old Moneta Road, Moneta.
In order to maximize the pantry’s food supply, LCM is cancelling the distribution of Easter Dinner food boxes that were scheduled for Saturday, April 4.
In an effort to keep LCM clients and volunteers healthy and safe, the LCM building will be closed to clients until the state of emergency is lifted. Until this time, all other LCM services—clothing, warehouse, financial aid, and New Tomorrows services—are suspended.
“Demand for LCM food assistance will be high during our Monday service days,” said LCM Executive Director Jane Winters. “We ask that everyone receiving service be patient and kind as volunteers address the new emergency food assistance plan.”
Support Lake Christian Ministries through
Roanoke Valley Gives Day
Roanoke Valley Gives Day
Roanoke Valley Gives (RVG) Day, March 18, is an important day for Lake Christian Ministries and the effort to eradicate poverty in the SML area. An online giving initiative designed to inspire and grow philanthropy in the region, RVG seeks to raise local funds among some 150 charitable organizations.
LCM 's goal is to raise at least $50,000 to support the organization’s programs and services that impact poverty in the SML community. “RVG Day has become one of our most important fund-raising opportunities,” said LCM Executive Director Jane Winters. “This will be LCM's fourth year with RVG, and we hope the incredible community response we saw last year will be repeated in 2020.”
LCM supporters can go to the RVG website (www.rvgives.org) anytime from now until midnight on March 18, select Lake Christian Ministries as the charity to receive their donation with 3/18/20 as the processing date, and make their donation using the credit card of choice.
“Last year, LCM raised nearly $54,000 on RVG Day, including matching funds and bonuses from the sponsor of the overall event. To repeat that success, we need everyone who gave last year and then some to make donations during the RVG giving period, now through March 18,” Winters emphasized.
Simple instructions for making a donation are posted at www.lakechristianministries.org and on the RVG campaign website, www.rvgives.org. “We hope LCM supporters will find this a convenient way to support Lake Christian Ministries and our neighbors in need in the SML community,” Winters said.
Join SML charities on March 18 from 4pm - 6pm at the SML YMCA (293 Firstwatch Dr., Moneta, VA 24121) as they participate together in Roanoke Valley Gives (RVG) Day. Many of your favorite local non-profits are working collectively to host this fun, all-inclusive event called SML Celebrates RVGives. The free event is open to the public and features RVG giving opportunities, food, performances, games, door prizes, and more! Non-profits' volunteers will be on site to assist with online giving as they compete for RVG incentives for their organization. To support the SML charities, give online on March 18 at rvgives.org or join the SML Celebrates RVGives event from 4pm – 6pm to make your online gifts at the charities’ RVG displays.
LCM 's goal is to raise at least $50,000 to support the organization’s programs and services that impact poverty in the SML community. “RVG Day has become one of our most important fund-raising opportunities,” said LCM Executive Director Jane Winters. “This will be LCM's fourth year with RVG, and we hope the incredible community response we saw last year will be repeated in 2020.”
LCM supporters can go to the RVG website (www.rvgives.org) anytime from now until midnight on March 18, select Lake Christian Ministries as the charity to receive their donation with 3/18/20 as the processing date, and make their donation using the credit card of choice.
“Last year, LCM raised nearly $54,000 on RVG Day, including matching funds and bonuses from the sponsor of the overall event. To repeat that success, we need everyone who gave last year and then some to make donations during the RVG giving period, now through March 18,” Winters emphasized.
Simple instructions for making a donation are posted at www.lakechristianministries.org and on the RVG campaign website, www.rvgives.org. “We hope LCM supporters will find this a convenient way to support Lake Christian Ministries and our neighbors in need in the SML community,” Winters said.
Join SML charities on March 18 from 4pm - 6pm at the SML YMCA (293 Firstwatch Dr., Moneta, VA 24121) as they participate together in Roanoke Valley Gives (RVG) Day. Many of your favorite local non-profits are working collectively to host this fun, all-inclusive event called SML Celebrates RVGives. The free event is open to the public and features RVG giving opportunities, food, performances, games, door prizes, and more! Non-profits' volunteers will be on site to assist with online giving as they compete for RVG incentives for their organization. To support the SML charities, give online on March 18 at rvgives.org or join the SML Celebrates RVGives event from 4pm – 6pm to make your online gifts at the charities’ RVG displays.
Representatives from MemberOne FCU recently presented a donation check for $1,000 to Jane Winters, LCM. This donation will assist LCM with food, clothing, financial aid and job placement services to assist our neighbors in need. This gift was made possible by the employees of MemberOne FCU who made donations on the company's "Jeans Day". A BIG thanks goes out to all the area MemberOne employees who donated to support our neighbors in need during the holiday season!
Members of the SML Model Railroad Group (left to right: Jim Caskie; Dave Phelps; Bob Ford; and Tim Armstrong) present a check for $2,808 to Jane Winters, LCM, to support the 2019 A Child's Christmas Program. This donation represents the proceeds from the 2019 Charity Chug event that was held on December 14. A Child's Christmas provided toys and warm clothing for 356 children in need in our community. A big thank you to the SML Model Railroad for its outstanding support of our children in need during the holiday season!!
A special thanks to the Lake Leaders Association of the Bedford Chamber of Commerce for providing a generous donation for A Child's Christmas. Bobbie Williams, Networking Leader, presents the donation to Jane Winters, LCM.
Charity Chug Benefits A Child's Christmas
Lake Christian Ministries extends its deep appreciation to the SML Model Railroad Club for hosting the 12th Annual Charity Chug on December 14. Hundreds of children and adults enjoyed the train displays and holidays festivities that benefited A Child's Christmas which provides toys and clothes for children in need. The event earned nearly $3000 for LCM's "A Child's Christmas".
Emery Maxson, a junior member of the SML Model Railroad Group, was the primary operator at one of the home layouts that welcomed
visitors during the 12th Annual Charity Chug on December 14th. The event earned nearly $3000 for LCM's "A Child's Christmas." Photo by Jerry Hale
Pictured (front row left to right) Santa Claus and Mrs. Savage; (back row left to right): Rod Savage and Dave Phelps
Foster Fuels collects coats for Lake Christian Ministries
In early fall 2019, Foster Fuels conducted a coat drive to provide warm coats for Lake Christian Ministries’ Neighbors in need this winter. Due to an overwhelming response, Foster Fuels representatives Mike Milner and Aaron Rogerson recently delivered an entire truckload of gently used coats for LCM family members of all sizes.
“We are thrilled to have such a large donation of warm coats for our Neighbors this winter. Having a warm coat when the weather is cold is a true blessing for our LCM families. We want to thank Foster Fuels for spearheading the coat drive. We are thankful for the company’s community partnership to address the great needs in our community,” commented LCM Executive Director Jane Winters.
“We are thrilled to have such a large donation of warm coats for our Neighbors this winter. Having a warm coat when the weather is cold is a true blessing for our LCM families. We want to thank Foster Fuels for spearheading the coat drive. We are thankful for the company’s community partnership to address the great needs in our community,” commented LCM Executive Director Jane Winters.
A Child’s Christmas Makes the Holiday Merry for Children in Need
Lake Christian Ministries’ holiday plans for children in need are well underway. Each year, LCM volunteer elves work to make Christmas a joy-filled time of year for children who may not have new clothes or toys, children who may not know this holiday is for all God’s children, rich and poor. At LCM, we call it A Child’s Christmas, and by mid-October registration begins for children who live in homes where finances are often not enough to pay bills and never enough to buy new clothes or gifts. LCM asks eligible parents what sizes and types of clothing each child needs, and what things their children want for Christmas. Last year, 350 children who live in poverty in the Smith Mountain Lake area received gifts, toys and hope through this program.
A Child’s Christmas is a perfect example of community collaboration. Many businesses and churches work with LCM to supply clothing and gifts by hosting Angel Trees, which feature gift tags with individual children’s needs. While other businesses and organizations such as Westlake Auto, Foster Fuels and Dollar General stores, and many others (listed below) display collection boxes for donated new toys.
Nearly 100 volunteers work to register, sort, bag, shop and distribute the final gift bags the week before Christmas. Not surprisingly, many of these volunteers have worked with A Child’s Christmas for many years. “We may be giving gifts to the children, but the joy and love we receive in return is the true Christmas blessing,” commented an LCM volunteer.
To help make this holiday merry for children in need, purchase a new toy and drop it off at one of the collection locations shown below or stop by one of LCM’s Angel Tree partners, also shown below, and purchase clothes or desired toys listed on the gift tag provided with information on each child. You can also give cash donations to purchase items that are not covered by other types of community support. Send donations to LCM, P.O. Box 695, Moneta, VA 24121 with a memo: Children’s Programs.
A Child’s Christmas is a perfect example of community collaboration. Many businesses and churches work with LCM to supply clothing and gifts by hosting Angel Trees, which feature gift tags with individual children’s needs. While other businesses and organizations such as Westlake Auto, Foster Fuels and Dollar General stores, and many others (listed below) display collection boxes for donated new toys.
Nearly 100 volunteers work to register, sort, bag, shop and distribute the final gift bags the week before Christmas. Not surprisingly, many of these volunteers have worked with A Child’s Christmas for many years. “We may be giving gifts to the children, but the joy and love we receive in return is the true Christmas blessing,” commented an LCM volunteer.
To help make this holiday merry for children in need, purchase a new toy and drop it off at one of the collection locations shown below or stop by one of LCM’s Angel Tree partners, also shown below, and purchase clothes or desired toys listed on the gift tag provided with information on each child. You can also give cash donations to purchase items that are not covered by other types of community support. Send donations to LCM, P.O. Box 695, Moneta, VA 24121 with a memo: Children’s Programs.
2019 Lake Christian Ministries, Inc. A Child’s Christmas Community Partners
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Toy Collection Box Locations
Bedford County • SML Visitors Center • Moosie’s • SML Coffee • Moneta Farm and Home Center • Dollar General, Moneta • SML and Moneta Library • Affordable Home Outlet • Red Rock Store • Virginia Dare Cruises & Marina • Jake’s Place • Foster Fuels, Huddleston Franklin County • The General Store/Mama Ann’s • Capps Home Building Center • Dollar General, Westlake • Dollar General, Scruggs • Hot Shots Family Fun Center • Westlake Automotive • Westlake Library |
Angel Tree Partner Locations
Bedford County • Bethlehem UMC • Resurrection Catholic Church • Patmos United Methodist Church • Moneta Y/MAC • Moneta Post Office • Huddleston Post Office • Morgan’s Baptist Church • Mariners Landing Franklin County: • Trinity Ecumenical Parish • Epworth United Methodist Church • Westlake Y • American National Bank • Curves • Hot Shots • Blackwater Café • Carilion Wellness |
LCM Charity Chug returns to TEP Dec. 14
The SML Model Railroad Group's annual Charity Chug model train open house, benefiting Lake Christian Ministries “A Child's Christmas,” will return for its twelfth consecutive year on December 14 with a display at Trinity Ecumenical Parish (TEP) plus multiple home layouts to visit.
“Last year was the first time we consolidated several operating layouts at TEP and added a number of hands-on kids' activities and informative displays,” said repeating event organizer Dr. Rod Savage. “Visitors liked finding so much to enjoy at one location—it was especially accessible to families with small children. We're expanding on that well-received approach this year.”
Operating model trains at TEP will include a huge display installed by the Lynchburg N-Scale Group, an HO display by Roanoke Valley Model Rail Group, a G-Scale loop under the Christmas tree, a “large scale” display, a “kids-can-run-it” O-gauge layout, and two setups that will be silent-auctioned to the highest bidders. One of those, in HO, has been lovingly refurbished by TEP youth; the other, in O-gauge, is a well-preserved Lionel starter set from the 1950s.
A white elephant table will offer lots of model RR treasures and a children's activities table will appeal to budding artists. Educational sessions will include scenery building, other modeling skills and an operating steam engine. Videos of area model railroad displays will also be shown, and 2-3 home layouts nearby will be open to those wishing to visit some of the area's museum-quality home layouts.
Charity Chug hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with Santa there to visit with kids from 10-2. Admission is free but donations to LCM's A Child's Christmas are encouraged. Sandwiches, snacks and beverages will be available, with proceeds jointly benefiting LCM and the TEP Youth Group's 2020 Mission Project.
Trinity Ecumenical Parish is located at 40 Lakemount Drive, Moneta, a mile south of Hales Ford Bridge on Rt. 122. Questions? Call 540-721-7222
“Last year was the first time we consolidated several operating layouts at TEP and added a number of hands-on kids' activities and informative displays,” said repeating event organizer Dr. Rod Savage. “Visitors liked finding so much to enjoy at one location—it was especially accessible to families with small children. We're expanding on that well-received approach this year.”
Operating model trains at TEP will include a huge display installed by the Lynchburg N-Scale Group, an HO display by Roanoke Valley Model Rail Group, a G-Scale loop under the Christmas tree, a “large scale” display, a “kids-can-run-it” O-gauge layout, and two setups that will be silent-auctioned to the highest bidders. One of those, in HO, has been lovingly refurbished by TEP youth; the other, in O-gauge, is a well-preserved Lionel starter set from the 1950s.
A white elephant table will offer lots of model RR treasures and a children's activities table will appeal to budding artists. Educational sessions will include scenery building, other modeling skills and an operating steam engine. Videos of area model railroad displays will also be shown, and 2-3 home layouts nearby will be open to those wishing to visit some of the area's museum-quality home layouts.
Charity Chug hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with Santa there to visit with kids from 10-2. Admission is free but donations to LCM's A Child's Christmas are encouraged. Sandwiches, snacks and beverages will be available, with proceeds jointly benefiting LCM and the TEP Youth Group's 2020 Mission Project.
Trinity Ecumenical Parish is located at 40 Lakemount Drive, Moneta, a mile south of Hales Ford Bridge on Rt. 122. Questions? Call 540-721-7222
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Dollar General Stores Donate Toys for Local Children in Need
A thousand thank yous to Lynn King, District Manager for SML Dollar General, for suggesting everyone bring toys to their Dollar General’s annual Corporate Meeting held earlier this summer at the 4-H Center. Part of the Dollar General mission statement is “serving others” in their communities and giving back to those in need. And, they did just that at this event!
Managers from across the country donated toys for Lake Christian Ministries’ A Child's Christmas program. The local Dollar General stores have been instrumental in helping Sea Tow owners Nancy and Rick Ellett collect toys for this holiday program in past years. Next time you drop in to a local Dollar General, thank them for helping make Christmas merry and bright for our local children who otherwise would not have a gift under the tree this year.
Managers from across the country donated toys for Lake Christian Ministries’ A Child's Christmas program. The local Dollar General stores have been instrumental in helping Sea Tow owners Nancy and Rick Ellett collect toys for this holiday program in past years. Next time you drop in to a local Dollar General, thank them for helping make Christmas merry and bright for our local children who otherwise would not have a gift under the tree this year.
A Simple Gesture’s donor base grows
A record number of donors participated in A Simple Gesture SML, Lake Christian Ministries’ pantry pickup program, on August 9. Nearly 200 donors filled tote bags with 1,722 pounds of shampoo, soap, deodorant, toothpaste and toothbrushes for Neighbors in need in the Smith Mountain Lake area.
SML Community Church and Bethlehem United Methodist Church also joined as faith community partners, assisting with registrations and collecting bags from parishioners.
Upon registration, each donor receives a reusable tote bag and a wish list of items requested by Lake Christian Ministries (LCM). On collection day, volunteer drivers (if available) pick up the bags at donors’ homes and deliver them to LCM. Donors may also drop off bags at designated locations in Franklin and Bedford County.
Registration for new donors will take place at the SML Walk to End Poverty at SML State Park on September 14, 2019, or can be done online by emailing asimplegesturesml@gmail.com.
A Simple Gesture SML is financially supported by Centra Stroobants Cardiovascular Center.
SML Community Church and Bethlehem United Methodist Church also joined as faith community partners, assisting with registrations and collecting bags from parishioners.
Upon registration, each donor receives a reusable tote bag and a wish list of items requested by Lake Christian Ministries (LCM). On collection day, volunteer drivers (if available) pick up the bags at donors’ homes and deliver them to LCM. Donors may also drop off bags at designated locations in Franklin and Bedford County.
Registration for new donors will take place at the SML Walk to End Poverty at SML State Park on September 14, 2019, or can be done online by emailing asimplegesturesml@gmail.com.
A Simple Gesture SML is financially supported by Centra Stroobants Cardiovascular Center.
Waterfront CC to host Bingo Night for LCM
Those who enjoy bingo can play their cards in a delightful summer evening country club environment, share a nice meal with friends and new acquaintances, and support Lake Christian Ministries' effort to eradicate poverty in the SML community—all on Wednesday, July 24 at Moneta's Waterfront Country Club.
This is a rare occasion when the normally members-only facility will be open to the general public for cash bar cocktails beginning at 5:30 pm, followed by Italian-themed buffet dinner service at 6:30 pm. Bingo games, hosted by WSLK 880 Lake Radio's Tim Ernandes, will begin at 7 pm. A 50/50 raffle will be held, with winner announced around 8 pm.
The buffet supper, consisting of antipasti platter, spaghetti, meat and vegetable Stromboli, salads and mini cannolis, will be $14 per person; bingo cards are $20 and $25 at the door. All proceeds will benefit LCM's Sept. 14 SML Walk to End Poverty, in honor of Jim Cameron and LCM's Neighbors in need.
“This will be a great way to spend an enjoyable evening while supporting LCM's effort to eradicate poverty in the SML area,” said Carol Salcito, who is coordinating the event with Waterfront Club Manager Paul Hassell. “The Waterfront Women have pledged a grand prize of $250 for a lucky bingo player.”
There is a 150-person limit for the evening. For reservations, call Waterfront Country Club by Friday, July 19 at 4 pm., 540-721-2397.
This is a rare occasion when the normally members-only facility will be open to the general public for cash bar cocktails beginning at 5:30 pm, followed by Italian-themed buffet dinner service at 6:30 pm. Bingo games, hosted by WSLK 880 Lake Radio's Tim Ernandes, will begin at 7 pm. A 50/50 raffle will be held, with winner announced around 8 pm.
The buffet supper, consisting of antipasti platter, spaghetti, meat and vegetable Stromboli, salads and mini cannolis, will be $14 per person; bingo cards are $20 and $25 at the door. All proceeds will benefit LCM's Sept. 14 SML Walk to End Poverty, in honor of Jim Cameron and LCM's Neighbors in need.
“This will be a great way to spend an enjoyable evening while supporting LCM's effort to eradicate poverty in the SML area,” said Carol Salcito, who is coordinating the event with Waterfront Club Manager Paul Hassell. “The Waterfront Women have pledged a grand prize of $250 for a lucky bingo player.”
There is a 150-person limit for the evening. For reservations, call Waterfront Country Club by Friday, July 19 at 4 pm., 540-721-2397.
Ten Neighbors graduate from Spring Getting Ahead class
Ten LCM Neighbors took one step closer to building a better life by graduating from the 16-week Getting Ahead in a Just Getting by World class on May 8. During the graduation ceremony, several of the Neighbors shared their success stories and their hopes of moving forward in their journey towards a stable and secure life for themselves and their families.
The graduates with their Partners and class instructors.
Congratulations to our Getting Ahead graduates: (front row, from left) Lisa Corinha, Teri Andes, Joann Castro and Sue Dillon; (back row) Tammy Proctor, Stephanie East, Sarah DeLeon, Terri Ransom and Bo Norfleet. (Not pictured: Kory Greenway.)
Lake Christian Ministries dedicates lobby to Mike Bond
RoJane Bond (center) accepts a plaque honoring her late husband Mike from LCM Executive Director Jane Winters (left) and Board Chair Jim Laseter.
Lake Christian Ministries (LCM) held a special dedication ceremony on March 29 to honor the memory of Michael “Mike” Bond, a long-time volunteer leader and supporter who died in 2018. The dedication marked the renaming of LCM’s lobby and the installation of a new more handicap accommodating front door.
Seventeen Bond family members, numerous volunteers and LCM Board members attended the dedication of the Mike Bond Memorial Neighbor Lobby. Bond’s wife, RoJane, accepted a plaque from LCM highlighting his contributions to the organization. A duplicate of the plaque now hangs in the lobby.
From 2008 to 2018, Bond served as Board Chair, Vice-Chair, Executive Director and Operations Manager. Speakers at the ceremony recalled how he took a personal interest in LCM’s Neighbors and set the standard for volunteers through his thoughtful and dedicated leadership.
“Mike Bond’s spirit continues to live on in everything we do at LCM. This space with his name attached to it will serve as a reminder that at the end of the day, we are here for no other reason than to serve those who come here, seeking help,” said LCM Board Chair Jim Laseter.
Perhaps the best statement about Bond came from one of the Neighbors with whom he forged a trusted relationship. “Mr. Mike was a very kind man,” said Savannah Anthony. “He had compassion for everyone who came through that door.”
Seventeen Bond family members, numerous volunteers and LCM Board members attended the dedication of the Mike Bond Memorial Neighbor Lobby. Bond’s wife, RoJane, accepted a plaque from LCM highlighting his contributions to the organization. A duplicate of the plaque now hangs in the lobby.
From 2008 to 2018, Bond served as Board Chair, Vice-Chair, Executive Director and Operations Manager. Speakers at the ceremony recalled how he took a personal interest in LCM’s Neighbors and set the standard for volunteers through his thoughtful and dedicated leadership.
“Mike Bond’s spirit continues to live on in everything we do at LCM. This space with his name attached to it will serve as a reminder that at the end of the day, we are here for no other reason than to serve those who come here, seeking help,” said LCM Board Chair Jim Laseter.
Perhaps the best statement about Bond came from one of the Neighbors with whom he forged a trusted relationship. “Mr. Mike was a very kind man,” said Savannah Anthony. “He had compassion for everyone who came through that door.”
SML Community Works Together on A Simple Gesture
Individual donors, small businesses, civic clubs, and students came together to help neighbors in need by supporting Lake Christian Ministries’ pantry pick-up program on March 8. The program, called A Simple Gesture SML, collected 2,453 pounds of canned fruit from 173 donors this quarter.
A Simple Gesture donors receive a reusable tote bag and a quarterly Wish List from Lake Christian Ministries (LCM). On collection days, volunteer drivers pick up the filled tote bags from donors’ homes or donors drop off their bags at designated locations.
Thirty neighborhoods participated this quarter, in addition to many donors who do not live in distinct neighborhoods. Waverly had the most donors, thanks to the recruitment efforts of Terry and Jim O’Connor, who also serve as volunteer drivers. Terry O’Connor explained that recruitment was easy because, "Waverly is a wonderful community with a big heart and A Simple Gesture is a great program."
Members of the SML Civitan Club filled tote bags for A Simple Gesture and learned about food insecurity and LCM’s programs at their March meeting. Numerous book clubs around the lake also filled bags. Capps Building Supply supported the program with employee contributions and by serving as a drop-off location.
After all bags were collected and delivered to LCM, two teachers and 19 students from Moneta Elementary School helped by counting, weighing bags, and sorting cans in the pantry.
“The response of this community has been very exciting,” said Linda Strup, A Simple Gesture coordinator, “and the results have been very impressive!”
A Simple Gesture’s third collection day will be on June 14. To sign up, please email asimplegesturesml@gmail.com or visit asimplegesturesml.org.
A Simple Gesture donors receive a reusable tote bag and a quarterly Wish List from Lake Christian Ministries (LCM). On collection days, volunteer drivers pick up the filled tote bags from donors’ homes or donors drop off their bags at designated locations.
Thirty neighborhoods participated this quarter, in addition to many donors who do not live in distinct neighborhoods. Waverly had the most donors, thanks to the recruitment efforts of Terry and Jim O’Connor, who also serve as volunteer drivers. Terry O’Connor explained that recruitment was easy because, "Waverly is a wonderful community with a big heart and A Simple Gesture is a great program."
Members of the SML Civitan Club filled tote bags for A Simple Gesture and learned about food insecurity and LCM’s programs at their March meeting. Numerous book clubs around the lake also filled bags. Capps Building Supply supported the program with employee contributions and by serving as a drop-off location.
After all bags were collected and delivered to LCM, two teachers and 19 students from Moneta Elementary School helped by counting, weighing bags, and sorting cans in the pantry.
“The response of this community has been very exciting,” said Linda Strup, A Simple Gesture coordinator, “and the results have been very impressive!”
A Simple Gesture’s third collection day will be on June 14. To sign up, please email asimplegesturesml@gmail.com or visit asimplegesturesml.org.
LCM has big success with RVG campaign
Participating in its fourth successive annual Roanoke Valley Gives (RVG) on-line giving day on March 13, Lake Christian Ministries exceeded their goal of $50,000 in donations. “Our generous supporters contributed $43,300 online during the 24-hour period,” said LCM Executive Director Jane Winters. “Combined with checks and cash also earmarked for the campaign, plus $5,000 in bonuses earned from RVG organizers, we generated just over $53,000 for LCM’s Neighbors in need that day.”
Combined with LCM's other major fundraiser—the Walk to End Poverty in September—about 25% of the charity's annual budget comes from just two events. “Every bit of the money raised goes to LCM programs that help SML residents who are struggling to make ends meet with food and household needs, emergency heat and electricity and, more recently, the New Tomorrows Program that guides LCM Neighbors toward movement out of poverty,” Winters explained. “Since the New Tomorrows Program began in 2015, over 100 Neighbor families have benefited. On behalf of our Neighbors, LCM wishes to thank the SML Community for its very generous ongoing support,”
Combined with LCM's other major fundraiser—the Walk to End Poverty in September—about 25% of the charity's annual budget comes from just two events. “Every bit of the money raised goes to LCM programs that help SML residents who are struggling to make ends meet with food and household needs, emergency heat and electricity and, more recently, the New Tomorrows Program that guides LCM Neighbors toward movement out of poverty,” Winters explained. “Since the New Tomorrows Program began in 2015, over 100 Neighbor families have benefited. On behalf of our Neighbors, LCM wishes to thank the SML Community for its very generous ongoing support,”
Helping Our Neighbors in Need and Providing
Hope for the Future
Hope for the Future
Lake Christian Ministries (LCM) is a non-profit outreach ministry supported by Smith Mountain Lake area churches, organizations, businesses and individuals. Since 1992, LCM has provided food, clothing, household items and crisis financial aid to our Neighbors in need in Bedford, Franklin and Pittsylvania counties.
LCM’s vision is to create a poverty-free SML community where each individual is valued, is connected and lives in hope. In 2018, to move closer to this vision, LCM expanded its New Tomorrows program, which assists Neighbors in clarifying financial and family issues and developing financial, educational and employment strategies with the help of volunteer Partners. Included in this program is a 16-week Getting Ahead in a Just Getting by World class that helps Neighbors better understand the barriers that are keeping them in poverty and develop a plan to move toward self-sufficiency.
In 2018, LCM provided:
Other 2018 LCM facts:
• Operating expenses of $351,800 (includes 85% of all food distributed).
• 230 volunteers worked over 28,650 hrs providing LCM’s programs & services.
• Nearly 58% of LCM Neighbors are under 18 or over 55 years of age.
LCM’s vision is to create a poverty-free SML community where each individual is valued, is connected and lives in hope. In 2018, to move closer to this vision, LCM expanded its New Tomorrows program, which assists Neighbors in clarifying financial and family issues and developing financial, educational and employment strategies with the help of volunteer Partners. Included in this program is a 16-week Getting Ahead in a Just Getting by World class that helps Neighbors better understand the barriers that are keeping them in poverty and develop a plan to move toward self-sufficiency.
In 2018, LCM provided:
- Food to 1,978 unduplicated individuals, totaling 171,372 meals (two nutritional meals a day for five days per person per monthly visit) served to 740 households. Two mobile food pantries provide food to some 60 families who cannot come to LCM.
- Emergency financial aid to 263 families, amounting to $91,194 paid directly to the providers for housing; fuel; electricity; medical, dental and prescription drug expenses; and other types of crisis assistance.
- Individual relationship-based support for 30 Neighbors through the LCM Partners program, which began in 2018 as a component service of the New Tomorrows program. By developing a partnership between trained LCM volunteers and Neighbors, the Partners program provides assistance for lifestyle improvement education and job readiness and placement.
- Since its beginning in 2015, the Getting Ahead in a Just Getting by World class has benefited 43 families, helping them move to a more secure future.
- Food baskets for Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter to more than 2,271 individuals.
- 23,753 items of donated clothing, household items and appliances.
- Back-to-school supplies to 243 children in grades K-12.
- Warm clothing and gifts to 350 children, under age 16 in families enrolled at LCM, through “A Child’s Christmas.”
- Dentures to 31 Neighbors through restricted grants.
Other 2018 LCM facts:
• Operating expenses of $351,800 (includes 85% of all food distributed).
• 230 volunteers worked over 28,650 hrs providing LCM’s programs & services.
• Nearly 58% of LCM Neighbors are under 18 or over 55 years of age.
LCM Memorial Dedication for Mike Bond
It is with great sadness that we share the passing of Mike Bond on October 17, 2018 following surgery from a fall. Mike’s memorial service will be held at 2pm on Saturday, October 20th at Bethlehem United Methodist Church, Moneta. Mike was a dedicated Lake Christian Ministries (LCM) volunteer leader and supporter. From 2010 when he began service as Board Chair until his death, Mike dedicated his life to helping our neighbors in need and inspiring LCM’s volunteers. At LCM, Mike served as Board Chair and Vice-Chair, Executive Director (2011-2015), and Operations Manager. LCM will not be the same without his thoughtful and dedicated leadership. Board members will fondly remember Mike for ensuring that all new Board members go through “LCM charm school” a process where each new member shadowed every role at LCM to fully understand the vital services that LCM provides. Mike will be greatly missed by his LCM Family.
Memorial Dedication: Memorial gifts for Mike Bond will be earmarked for a special dedication at LCM. The front lobby area will be renamed the Mike Bond Memorial Neighbor Center. A new handicap accessible and accommodating front door will be added to the front lobby along with a new welcome sign and a dedication plaque in Mike’s memory. Memorial gifts to support this effort can be sent to: LCM, P.O. Box 695, Moneta, VA 24121 with a note that reads: Mike Bond Memorial.
You may also donate to LCM in honor of Mike using the button below.
Memorial Dedication: Memorial gifts for Mike Bond will be earmarked for a special dedication at LCM. The front lobby area will be renamed the Mike Bond Memorial Neighbor Center. A new handicap accessible and accommodating front door will be added to the front lobby along with a new welcome sign and a dedication plaque in Mike’s memory. Memorial gifts to support this effort can be sent to: LCM, P.O. Box 695, Moneta, VA 24121 with a note that reads: Mike Bond Memorial.
You may also donate to LCM in honor of Mike using the button below.
Charity Chug Benefits A Child's Christmas
On December 12, 2018, the SML Model Railroad Club members presented a donation of $4,006 to Lake Christian Ministries Executive Director Jane Winters and Board Officers Jim Laseter and Dave English, to support this year's A Child's Christmas Program. This donation represented record proceeds for the annual Charity Chug event.
"These funds will help provide toys, gifts and warm clothes for over 330 children who live in homes where there is rarely enough money to pay the bills and never enough income to put gifts under the tree," commented Jane Winters. "We are grateful to the SML Model Railroad Club for staging this wonderful holiday event and to the lake community for the very generous support of the Charity Chug."
On December 15 Lake Christian Ministries will share the joy and hope of Christmas with the community's children and families in need. Over 325 Christmas Breakfast baskets will be shared with LCM families and gifts will be given to approximately 330 children ages 16 and under.
"These funds will help provide toys, gifts and warm clothes for over 330 children who live in homes where there is rarely enough money to pay the bills and never enough income to put gifts under the tree," commented Jane Winters. "We are grateful to the SML Model Railroad Club for staging this wonderful holiday event and to the lake community for the very generous support of the Charity Chug."
On December 15 Lake Christian Ministries will share the joy and hope of Christmas with the community's children and families in need. Over 325 Christmas Breakfast baskets will be shared with LCM families and gifts will be given to approximately 330 children ages 16 and under.
Lake Christian Ministries is Grateful for 2018 Grant Support
A Special Thank Our Grantors…
Grant funding is an important source of support for the LCM Ministry - providing nearly $50,000 each year (15% of the funds required to aid our neighbors in need). As of August 31, 2018, LCM was grateful to receive funding from seven grantors to support vital 2018 projects and services. While some grants assist with ongoing programs, others allow LCM to enhance an existing service or offer new services to neighbors in need. Our goal is to utilize these grant funds to empower our neighbors in need to move toward a more secure future and a better quality of life. We gratefully acknowledge grantors who have provided the following 2018 support:
Bedford Community Health Foundation - $9,000 to provide dentures services to LCM neighbors who reside in Bedford County.
Food Lion Feeds Charitable Foundation - $1,800 Feeding the Hungry grant for the purchase of healthy food supplies dedicated to feeding the hungry in the communities Food Lion serves.
The Greater Lynchburg Community Foundation - $10,000 to provide healthy food supplies and nutrition education to Bedford County neighbors in need.
United Way of Central Virginia - $10,000 to support the Food Assistance and Milk Voucher Program for Bedford County neighbors in need.
United Way of Roanoke Valley/Franklin County - $5,000 to support the Food Assistance Program for Franklin County neighbors in need.
Presbytery of the Peaks - $2,000 to assist with the purchase of healthy food to address hunger in the SML community.
The Lane Foundation - $2,000 to support the Milk Voucher Program to improve nutrition for the children in need in the SML community.
Grant funding is an important source of support for the LCM Ministry - providing nearly $50,000 each year (15% of the funds required to aid our neighbors in need). As of August 31, 2018, LCM was grateful to receive funding from seven grantors to support vital 2018 projects and services. While some grants assist with ongoing programs, others allow LCM to enhance an existing service or offer new services to neighbors in need. Our goal is to utilize these grant funds to empower our neighbors in need to move toward a more secure future and a better quality of life. We gratefully acknowledge grantors who have provided the following 2018 support:
Bedford Community Health Foundation - $9,000 to provide dentures services to LCM neighbors who reside in Bedford County.
Food Lion Feeds Charitable Foundation - $1,800 Feeding the Hungry grant for the purchase of healthy food supplies dedicated to feeding the hungry in the communities Food Lion serves.
The Greater Lynchburg Community Foundation - $10,000 to provide healthy food supplies and nutrition education to Bedford County neighbors in need.
United Way of Central Virginia - $10,000 to support the Food Assistance and Milk Voucher Program for Bedford County neighbors in need.
United Way of Roanoke Valley/Franklin County - $5,000 to support the Food Assistance Program for Franklin County neighbors in need.
Presbytery of the Peaks - $2,000 to assist with the purchase of healthy food to address hunger in the SML community.
The Lane Foundation - $2,000 to support the Milk Voucher Program to improve nutrition for the children in need in the SML community.
100+ Women Who Care SML Collective Donates to LCM
Lake Christian Ministries volunteers and staff were thrilled to receive collective donations totaling $12,200 from the 100+ Women Who Care SML. This generous support will be devoted to LCM's programs that directly impact poverty in the Smith Mountain Lake community - New Tomorrows, Getting Ahead in a Just Getting by World, and the Denture Program. THANK YOU to each and every woman who is a part of this wonderful collective giving group. You are making such a positive and meaningful impact in our lake community!
LCM announces new 2018 Board members
Lake Christian Ministries has appointed seven distinguished SML-area residents to its Board of Directors, bringing the governing body composition to fully 20 members.
“We are extremely blessed and excited at the new talent, experience and enthusiasm our seven new directors bring to our leadership team,” said Board Chairman David English. “That such qualified people are volunteering to help guide LCM toward accomplishment of its recently-adopted new vision--'A poverty-free SML community where each individual is valued, is connected, and lives in hope'-- is a strong indication that we have defined a goal the entire community will embrace. Poverty in our area has increased over the past ten years, despite flat trend lines nation-wide, LCM believes it must lead an effort to reduce our local poverty rate and ultimately eliminate poverty in the SML area all together.”
LCM’s new board members, all volunteers, are:
--Randy Agee, formal representative to LCM from Christ Community Church in Penhook. Actively involved with outreach, he chairs the Mission Outreach and is Vice-Chair of the Governing Council of Christ Community Church.
--John Achtue, an active member of the New Tomorrows team who holds an MA in Counseling Psychology and has a strong background in Human Resources; is currently leading a “Getting Ahead in a Just Getting By World” class.
--Sallie Cappellari, certified personal trainer and owner/operator of her own in-home personal training business; holds an undergraduate degree in political science and an MPA (Masters in Public Administration).
--Lindsey Coley, BS, MPA, JD, local attorney and chair elect of the SML Regional Chamber of Commerce.
--Kelvin Edwards, Sr., Pastor of the Epworth United Methodist Church and the Halesford United Methodist Church, both of which are formal church members of LCM.
--Ann Saad, Holder of a Masters in Education who served over 30 years in public and private school education in the US and abroad. Currently an Interviewer/MOM (Manager of the Ministry) at LCM, on the Board of SML Good Neighbors, and a member of AAUW and 100+ Women Who Care.
--Anna Turner, who taught in the Alexandria City Public Schools before moving to SML. An operations manager on Mondays at LCM who recently served on the LCM Executive Director Search Committee. Many of the school children she interacted with in Alexandria have similar backgrounds to the children that LCM serves.
Said LCM Executive Director Jane Winters of the Board’s composition: “The diverse experiences of so many dedicated leadership team members will ensure lively discussions about how LCM can best serve the SML community moving forward.”
“We are extremely blessed and excited at the new talent, experience and enthusiasm our seven new directors bring to our leadership team,” said Board Chairman David English. “That such qualified people are volunteering to help guide LCM toward accomplishment of its recently-adopted new vision--'A poverty-free SML community where each individual is valued, is connected, and lives in hope'-- is a strong indication that we have defined a goal the entire community will embrace. Poverty in our area has increased over the past ten years, despite flat trend lines nation-wide, LCM believes it must lead an effort to reduce our local poverty rate and ultimately eliminate poverty in the SML area all together.”
LCM’s new board members, all volunteers, are:
--Randy Agee, formal representative to LCM from Christ Community Church in Penhook. Actively involved with outreach, he chairs the Mission Outreach and is Vice-Chair of the Governing Council of Christ Community Church.
--John Achtue, an active member of the New Tomorrows team who holds an MA in Counseling Psychology and has a strong background in Human Resources; is currently leading a “Getting Ahead in a Just Getting By World” class.
--Sallie Cappellari, certified personal trainer and owner/operator of her own in-home personal training business; holds an undergraduate degree in political science and an MPA (Masters in Public Administration).
--Lindsey Coley, BS, MPA, JD, local attorney and chair elect of the SML Regional Chamber of Commerce.
--Kelvin Edwards, Sr., Pastor of the Epworth United Methodist Church and the Halesford United Methodist Church, both of which are formal church members of LCM.
--Ann Saad, Holder of a Masters in Education who served over 30 years in public and private school education in the US and abroad. Currently an Interviewer/MOM (Manager of the Ministry) at LCM, on the Board of SML Good Neighbors, and a member of AAUW and 100+ Women Who Care.
--Anna Turner, who taught in the Alexandria City Public Schools before moving to SML. An operations manager on Mondays at LCM who recently served on the LCM Executive Director Search Committee. Many of the school children she interacted with in Alexandria have similar backgrounds to the children that LCM serves.
Said LCM Executive Director Jane Winters of the Board’s composition: “The diverse experiences of so many dedicated leadership team members will ensure lively discussions about how LCM can best serve the SML community moving forward.”
Amazon Customers Smile on LCM
Are you familiar with Amazon Smile? Do you buy from Amazon? If you are an Amazon customer, you can help us pay for the services we provide to our neighbors in need in Franklin, Bedford and Pittsylvania counties. IT IS SIMPLE.
All you need to do is go to www.smile.amazon.com and select Lake Christian Ministries as your designated charity. From then on, LCM will automatically receive 0.5% of every dollar you spend on Amazon purchases. – at no cost to you!
LCM currently receives $400 to $500 a year from this program. That may not sound like a lot, but to those who rely on LCM, $500 can purchase food for a family of four for 13 weeks
Can you help us double our income? Triple it? Thanks.
All you need to do is go to www.smile.amazon.com and select Lake Christian Ministries as your designated charity. From then on, LCM will automatically receive 0.5% of every dollar you spend on Amazon purchases. – at no cost to you!
LCM currently receives $400 to $500 a year from this program. That may not sound like a lot, but to those who rely on LCM, $500 can purchase food for a family of four for 13 weeks
Can you help us double our income? Triple it? Thanks.