The Board of Congregational Life at Greenbelt Community Church, United Church of Christ (GCC) has been working hard to identify ways to help neighbors affected by the pandemic and raise funds during the holiday season. However, it was the support of many church members and friends in the community that made it a great success.
The group raised $3,100 to purchase gift cards (Co-op Supermarket, Safeway, Giant and Target) distributed by school counselors to local families at Greenbelt Elementary, Springhill Lake Elementary and Magnolia Elementary.
Another $500 was donated to CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) of Prince George’s County, to help older teens who are aging out of the foster care system and need warm coats, hats and gloves for the winter.
Finally, $1,033 or 5,169 pounds of donated clothing and houseware items were collected to Feed Our Hungry Neighbors. Value Village has a special program to make items no longer needed add up to real money. Funds will be split among four local food kitchens and pantries: Help By Phone, Meals on Wheels, Greenbelt Good Samaritan Fund and Community Place Café.
Thanks to all the people who donated time, talents, prayers and funds to make this community drive such a success and make the holidays more enjoyable for many community members.