Program areas at Grove Christian Outreach Center
Food - gcoc distributed over 421,827 pounds of food to 341 different families, representing 1,168 different individuals. 4,792 snack bags were distributed to children until the program ended in november. Volunteers from local churches helped pick up donated food from 12 area grocery stores and restaurants as well as the Virginia peninsula foodbank. Hygiene and cleaning products were also distributed monthly through our pantry. The summer lunch program provided 6,724 lunches to children.
Holiday giving - 162 children received shoe boxes filled with gifts at christmas and our christmas blessing room provided parents an opportunity to select a gift for each of their children, for a total of 224 children receiving toys through the workshop. Through the blessing room, gift cards were provided to parents in the household. Churches and businesses, along with many individuals, partnered to provide christmas gifts to our blessing room and shoe box gifts for kids Outreach programs.
Emergency assistance - the Center continued its collaboration with area churches and agencies, including united way to help clients in need of financial assistance. A total of 91,430 was given to aid families which included rent, utilities, medical prescriptions, medical care, gas vouchers and bus tickets. And, 998 diaper packages were served.
Back to school - 182 students received backpacks. One local church provided 162 students with new shoes. Throughout the year, the Center provides gently used uniforms to children attending the community elementary school as well as school supplies. Grants from a local civic organizations and a corporate foundation, along with generous donations from various churches, businesses and individuals made this program possible.