Across the United States, the twin crisis of the pandemic and economic downturn are depleting donations and could force as many as a third of nonprofits to close permanently.
But in Chattanooga, one church is filling a gap for four local nonprofits: The Bethlehem Center, The Chattanooga Community Kitchen, The Chattanooga Rescue Mission and Hope for the Inner City.
This past Christmas, Silverdale Baptist Church asked its congregation to give a gift to benefit local mission partners that minister to the hungry and homeless. Silverdale raised more than $32,000 during the holidays to help these partners.
Silverdale Baptist Church will present these funds to the nonprofits Tuesday, Feb. 16, 10:30 a.m., in Oaks Coffee House’s upper room.
“These funds will help meet urgent needs and keep meals on the table throughout the cold, wet days ahead,” says Jens Christensen from Chattanooga Community Kitchen.
“As a church, we want to bring God’s peace and healing to Chattanooga,” says Tony Walliser, lead pastor at Silverdale. “We believe that through serving our community, assisting the poor, caring for the sick and educating the next generation, we can positively impact people’s lives and families.”
Silverdale partners with over 30 local nonprofits throughout the year and funds them through its missions offerings and the profits of Oaks Coffee House.
Source: Silverdale Baptist Church