Ministerial working with FCSS to help those in need

By Brad Everett Times Contributor

The churches of Strathmore are using their Community Good Friday Service to start a new initiative for helping out those in need, in collaboration with Strathmore Family and Community Support Services (FCSS).
“The offering from the Good Friday service will go towards purchasing gift cards that can then be managed by FCSS,” said Fr. Malcolm Kern, priest of St. Michael and All Angels Anglican Church, which is leading the April 19 service, held at Hope Covenant Church at 10:30 a.m.
The local churches receive many phone calls from people looking for help, but there is not always someone in the office who can assist them. With this new cooperation, local churches can direct people in need to Strathmore FCSS, which will be able to provide not only the gift cards but also direction and information regarding other agencies that can provide needed assistance beyond what churches can.
“Churches don’t have the same knowledge of the various agencies that FCSS does,” said Kern. “By directing people to FCSS for gift cards, the staff there will have the opportunity to possibly connect those individuals with other agencies.”
The gift cards will be provided for groceries, gasoline and possibly other items if there is a need.
The Community Good Friday Service is an annual event hosted by the Strathmore and Area Ministerial Association. Member churches take turns leading the service.