The
fourth of seven in a series about the recipients of this year's Seeds
of Hope Grants to develop and expand social justice ministries in
Southern Virginia. Learn more about Seeds of Hope grants here.
St. Thomas, Freeman, was awarded two Seeds of Hope grants this year.
One will fund the expansion of their Youth Empowerment program. The
second grant will help grow the Senior Pals program.
Located in an
impoverished area of the state, St. Thomas' Youth Empowerment Progam
offers important enrichment and education for the youth of their
community, as well as parents. The program offers both spiritual and
cultural nurturing. Youth are able to participate in cultural
activities, receive skills development and mentoring. Their parents also
can participate in workshops designed especially for them. This year's
grant will allow St. Thomas' to add workshops to help single mothers
develop skills that will help them find jobs and a sewing class.
The Senior Pals
program provides encouragement and support to senior citizens of St.
Thomas' community. This year's grant will allow the program to add
Emergency Preparedness workshops to their offerings.
These programs
have made a measurable difference in the lives of Freeman residents. "I
have truly enjoyed the cooking class, learning to use what you have to
make a good but healthy meal for the family. May God continue to bless
St. Thomas church family." - participant in St. Thomas', Freeman, Senior
Pal "Back to Basics" cooking class.
