Rebuilding Together/Christmas in April
In late April parishioners participate in Rebuilding Together (formerly known as Christmas in April) by assisting with repair projects for a needy (and usually elderly) Arlington homeowner recommended by Arlington County social workers.
SMGW Toiletries and Food Drives
In May and June (tied to Mother’s Day and Father’s Day) we collect food and toiletries for clients of SMGW (Samaritan Ministries of Greater Washington).
Project College-Bound
In early July we shop for and deliver equipment and supplies to one or more foster children from the District of Columbia (nominated by the D.C. Child and Family Services Agency) who’ll be going to college in the fall. The church pays for laptop computers and parishioners purchase other supplies needed for college and dorm life, including notebooks, paper, pens, bedding, storage bins, and the like.
CROP Walk
In October we participate in the Church World Service’s annual CROP (Communities Responding to Overcome Poverty) Walk through the Arlington Interfaith Counsel, donating $50 for each congregant who takes part.
Arlington County Emergency Winter Shelter (EWS)
From November to March. Once a week, a family or individual cooks and transports an evening meal for 45 to 50 diners at the EWS (located near Courthouse Plaza); the church reimburses expenses.
Thanksgiving Food Drive
In early November we start collecting food for approximately 40 Thanksgiving meals for homeless and needy people, usually clients of the Samaritan Ministry of Greater Washington (SMGW); the church provides funds for 40 grocery gift cards that can be used to purchase turkeys, while parishioners donate the other elements of the meals (including stuffing mix, vegetables, and ingredients to make pie).
Secret Santa
In late November and early December congregants select names of families in need (as identified by Arlington County and other social service organizations), and purchase Christmas gifts from their wish lists; the church reimburses a set amount toward these gifts.
SMGW Christmas Party
In mid-December SMGW (Samaritan Ministry of Greater Washington) holds a Christmas party for clients and their families. We collect new donated toys and books and often send a few volunteers to help with food and other tasks at the party.