Jamestown – The South Central Homeless Coalition received a United Way Grant of $1,500 to support the annual blessing bag drive.

Earlier this year, the coalition drive partnered with Jamestown Ministerial Association, Triumph Inc, ND State Hospital, and other community members to collect and assemble “Blessing Bags” of donated essential care items for people experiencing homelessness and or other hardships. With donations collected during that drive, the coalition was able to assemble nearly 200 bags which have all been distributed within our region.

As this drive was smaller than previous years, the coalition is extremely grateful for the grant which  will be used to be able to purchase additional supplies to build more blessing bags to be used for families and individuals experiencing homelessness or extreme need.

Blessing bags will be shared with various organizations within Region VI such as South Central Human Service Center, Community Action, Freedom Resources, James River Correctional Center, Veteran Services, local churches, and Public Schools for distribution to individuals who are experiencing homelessness or extreme need.

The purpose of the South Central Homeless Coalition’s purpose shall be to advocate, coordinate, and optimize services for homeless men, women and children within Region VI of the South Central Human Service Center. For more information contact coalition President Pastor Susan Haukaas at Trinity Lutheran Church (701) 252-2841.

from Cassie DuBray