What's New at 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.