Building Bridges Initiative

 

This past spring, our church received a gift . . . and a challenge.  The gift was that of $4,000, given each year for 5 years to Alexandria United Methodist Church.  The challenge was that we as a congregation were to use 2/3 of this money annually to help others in our community and to create relationships or 'build bridges" that would enrich both our own lives, and those of the people we serve.

 

A committee was formed, comprised of members of the Missions committee and other volunteers - Chuck Holm, John Heydt, Marsha Haugen, Sherry Bruckner and Heidi Ryan.  Guidelines were established and an application form was made available to church members to complete and return for consideration.

 

We are pleased to announce that the Building Bridges Initiative was able to award $2,666 this year to HRA of Alexandria.  The money will be used to fund a revolving account that provides loans of up to $500 at 0% interest to families who need this money in order to pay deposits for rent and/or utilities.  It was noted that the need for up-front deposit money can stand in the way of a family being able to obtain safe and adequate housing.  Lori Haugland of HRA noted that this gift means that this next year alone, 5-8 families will be able to obtain housing that otherwise would have been out of reach.

 

HRA will be responsible for dispersing these funds.  Lori indicated that recipients will receive information about the source of funds, as well as information about our free monthly breakfasts.  Lori intends to keep us advised of the difference these loans are making in the lives of area families.

 

As we observe this Advent season, it is fitting that we remember another family so many years ago who had but a manger for a bed...and celebrate our ability to help these families in the present day!