SOCIAL CONCERNS 

Social Concerns is a very important part of St. Matthew and our vision of serving our community.   Here’s a brief description of what has been done in the past. 

COMMUNITY BLOOD DRIVES – Scheduled normally 3 times per year – August 7 and probably in December.  The blood center staff does all the work.  All we are responsible for is unlocking the church at 8 a.m. and locking the church after the blood drive is complete – usually by 1:30.  You do not need to stay for the blood drive. 

FOOD FOR FISH – Normally a FISH food drive is done 4 to 5 times each year.  Along with scheduling, advertizing, and collecting donations, you are responsible for ensuring the food is delivered to the FISH food pantry located in the basement of Studebaker School.   

BACK-TO-SCHOOL SUPPLIES – Done in July for Graceworks.  Graceworks provides the list of needed items. 

ADOPT-A-FAMILY – This is one of the more important events of the year.  Basically, the coordinator contacts Graceworks for the name and Christmas list of a family or families, prepares a sign-up sheet or Christmas tags, collects the gifts, and then ensures the gifts are delivered to the family/families. 

ITEMS FOR HOMELESS – Normally done in January or February, we have collected coats, hats, gloves, and scarves for Jeremiah’s Letter or Project Blessing. 

We have also gathered items for Blue Star Mother’s, and there is a need for clothing for the VA hospital.  If you have a special interest, this could be an opportunity for you. 

Of all the church boards and committees, this is the one that really reflects the St. Matthew Vision statement of “God’s people reaching out with our unique gifts to serve one another and our community.”