Welcome to MeckMIN's Thursday Zoom Check-In Meetings
As of October 3, we are back to holding our check-in meetings for faith, community and nonprofit leaders WEEKLY. We will continue to address general needs in the community as well as issues related to Hurricane Helene.
These meetings are open to anyone interested in supporting compassionate community response, especially in partnership with the most vulnerable among us.
Meetings are held online every Thursday from 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Email LeDayne Polaski for Zoom access code. In addition, if you would like to receive notification when these minutes are posted, please email LeDayne and ask to be added to the Thursday meetings email list.
Click HERE to Access Zoom Recording:
OPENING REFLECTION
“The two principles that we embrace at Homeboy [are] everybody’s unshakably good and we belong to each other. And then I said, you know, do I think every vexing complex social dilemma would disappear if we embrace those two? And I said, yes, I do. Well, the whole audience, a huge auditorium burst into laughter, which kind of startled me. And then I said, yes, I do. And I do.”
– Greg Boyle
1. MECKMIN UPDATES
PLEASE SHARE THESE EVENTS WITH YOUR NETWORK AND WITH ANYONE YOU THINK MIGHT BE PARTICULARLY INTERESTED – AND PLEASE CONSIDER COMING YOURSELF
FRIENDSGIVING PICTURES!
The event was a resounding success! Thank you to all who came out. You can see pictures of the fun here:
OPEN TABLES
Thursday, December 19 | Unitarian Universalist Community of Charlotte
Open to ALL. Join us for a Potluck dinner and a chance to have a conversation around the table with people of various faiths on Thursday, December 19 at 6:30 PM at Unitarian Universalist Community of Charlotte.
Register HERE
THURSDAY MEETINGS
We will meet December 12 and 19. We will meet January 2, 2025 and will then continue our regular every other week schedule
NEXT WEEK: Lindsey Banks, Staff Writer, The Charlotte Ledger
Coming next week to this meeting to share her observations from her coverage of Hurricane Helene. That will be about half the meeting and there will be time for Q&A. If you are doing work on Hurricane Helene and want to be featured as well, please reach out.
AWARDS BREAKFAST NOMINATIONS -May 8th @ Friendship Missionary Church
Please be thinking about potential nominees. We offer awards in three areas: Those who do this work as their day job, those who contribute significantly through their volunteer hours and, for the first time, a middle or high school youth who does bridge building in the community.
PLEASE SHARE THESE EVENTS WITH YOUR NETWORK AND WITH ANYONE YOU THINK MIGHT BE PARTICULARLY INTERESTED – AND PLEASE CONSIDER COMING YOURSELF
SAVE THE DATE
April 6, 2025 (evening) – Interfaith Youth Panel
MECK COUNTY UPDATES
UPCOMING CLASSES
Jessica Montana | Jessica.Montana@mecklenburgcountync.gov | 980-312-4897
Health Program Supervisor | MeckNC.Gov
We have some classes coming up that may be of interest. See below and flyers attached. Thank you!
Join ReCAST II and South Piedmont AHEC for an insightful series where we will cover crucial topics such as responding to subpoenas, proper documentation practices, secondary traumatic stress, trauma-informed organizations, and trauma-informed supervision. We will also delve into specialized areas like caring for LGBTQ+ patients and effective communication with interpreters for non-English speaking patients.
All workshops will be virtual via Zoom. CEUs available.
Order in the Court! Documentation Best Practices and How to Respond to a Subpoena (Social workers, etc may be interested)
December 10, 2024
12:00pm-1:00pm
Secondary Traumatic Stress - Caring for Others While Caring for Yourself
December 17, 2024
12:00pm-1:00pm
Trauma-Informed Organizations
January 8, 2025
12:00pm-1:00pm
Trauma-Informed Supervision
January 15, 2025
12:00pm-1:00pm
Enhancing Communication: Working with Interpreters
January 28, 2025
12:00pm-1:00pm
LGBTQ+ 101
February 6, 2025
12:00pm-1:00pm
Postpartum Support International (PSI) Trainings
The following trainings will be offered by Postpartum Support International (PSI) in-person at the Harris Conference Center in Charlotte. Select ReCAST II partners can register at a reduced rate. Reach out to recastmecklenburg@mecknc.gov for more information. Be sure to share how this training will improve your work with women in the perinatal period.
Perinatal Loss: Clinical and Supportive Care - Charlotte, North Carolina
March 10 - 11, 2025
Perinatal Mood Disorders: Components of Care
March 12 – 13, 2025
Advanced Perinatal Mental Health Psychotherapy Training
March 14, 2025
Advanced Perinatal Mental Health Psychopharmacology Training
March 14, 2025
DEPARTMENT of COMMUNITY RESOURCES ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS for LOW-INCOME ENERGY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
Liz Graham | Liz.Graham@mecklenburgcountync.gov | 704-245-5715
Marketing Coordinator
The Mecklenburg County Department of Community Resources (DCR), through its Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP), is currently accepting applications from residents having trouble paying their heating bills. LIEAP is one of several programs administered by DCR to help low-income households with their immediate energy needs, so they do not need to choose between heating their homes and other basic needs.
LIEAP applicants do not have to be at risk of disconnection or delinquency to take advantage of this one-time, direct vendor payment in the amount of $300, $400, or $500 based on their primary heating source.
December is application priority month for residents aged 60 or older or disabled and receiving services through the Division of Aging and Adult Services. All other households can apply beginning Jan. 1, 2025. Assistance is available for all eligible applicants until March 3, 2025, or until funds run out. For more information on LIEAP, including eligibility requirements, please visit MeckNC.gov/Energy.
FREE COVID-19 & FLU VACCINATION
Meck Co. Public Health has free COVID and flu vaccines available for uninsured residents.
Appointments can be scheduled online or by calling 704-336-6500.
Walk-in appointments are based on availability.
VOLUNTEERS and DONATIONS NEEDED for COUNTY'S 'Point In Time’ Count
Preparations are underway for the 2025 Point-in-Time (PIT) Count, scheduled to take place in the early morning hours of Jan. 23, 2025. Mecklenburg County is now seeking volunteers to help ensure everybody counts.
The PIT Count, coordinated nationally by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), is conducted each year across the United States to gather data on homelessness. It takes place on a single night in January each year and provides a snapshot of homelessness. The key objectives of the PIT Count are to estimate the number of people experiencing homelessness and to understand their demographic characteristics and living situations. Another goal of finding unsheltered homeless individuals and families is to connect them to available resources.
The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Continuum of Care coordinates these efforts locally. Mecklenburg County Community Support Services’ Housing Innovation and Stabilization Services Division and the Hearts for the Invisible Coalition Charlotte have partnered to lead the 2025 Point-in-Time Count. Residents can help by offering time, donating items, and raising awareness.
To learn more about the state of housing in Charlotte-Mecklenburg, visit the Housing and Homelessness Dashboard.
NOMINATIONS OPEN FOR 2025 Crowns of Enterprise Awards
The annual Crowns of Enterprise Awards recognize and honor small businesses in Mecklenburg County that demonstrate exemplary leadership and sound business strategies. The awards voting committee strives to acknowledge the hard work and resilient efforts of local small businesses, illustrating the positive footprint and economic impact they have on our community. Nominations are being accepted for the following categories:
Certified Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) of the Year
Certified Woman Business Enterprise (WBE) of the Year
Certified Small Business Enterprise (SBE) of the Year
Prime Contractor of the Year
Diversity Advocate of the Year
Media Personality of the Year
The awards committee will be accepting nominations until Jan. 17, 2025. The Crowns of Enterprise Awards committee encourages the community to nominate a person or business for recognition. Self-nominations are welcomed. Additional information about the certifications is available in the nomination form.
Learn more about the awards and other efforts to support small, minority-owned and women-owned businesses by visiting the Mecklenburg County’s Business Diversity and Inclusion and the Charlotte Business INClusion websites.
OPPORTUNITY TO JOIN PUBLIC TRANSIT ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Emily A. Kunze | Emily.Kunze@charlottenc.gov | 980-264-9301
Administrative & Executive Support Manager, Charlotte Area Transit System
The Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) is now accepting applications on behalf of the Metropolitan Transit Commission (MTC) to their new advisory board, the Public Transit Advisory Committee (PTAC). PTAC was established by the MTC through an interlocal agreement between the City of Charlotte, Mecklenburg County and the six towns. PTAC is set to replace the Citizens Transit Advisory Group and the Transit Services Advisory Committee in 2025.
The Public Transit Advisory Committee is comprised of 15 members* (one Co-Chair appointed by the Mayor of Charlotte and one Co-Chair appointed by the Chairperson of the Mecklenburg County Board of Commissioners, two members appointed by City Council, two members appointed by the Mecklenburg Board of County Commissioners, one member appointed by the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Board of Education, one member appointed by the towns of Cornelius, Davidson, Huntersville, Matthews, Mint Hill and Pineville, and two at-large members* appointed by the MTC, one of which shall be a person with a disability and one shall be a fixed route service rider).
Board members should be, to the extent possible, representative of:
Different geographic areas of Mecklenburg County;
Different incomes, races and ethnicities, abilities and disabilities, identities, and ages;
Different transit rider groups (persons with disabilities, senior and school age citizens, commuters, low-income riders);
Travelers of different modes of public transportation (e.g., local bus, express bus, light rail, micro-transit, streetcar, and paratransit);
Mecklenburg County residents with an interest in improving transit conditions within the county and region, and have experience with urban transit issues;
Transit-related organizations/clubs; and,
Schools, business, and neighborhood organizations that particularly depend on the City's public transportation system.
* At their November 20, 2024, meeting, the MTC voted to add the two at-large appointments.
Don’t miss your chance to represent your community on the region’s new Public Transit Advisory Committee! If you’re interested in improving transit conditions across the region and have experience with urban transportation systems, you could serve on PTAC. PTAC will meet monthly to review transit policies, collect feedback and make recommendations to the MTC.
Applications can be submitted through January 3, 2025, at charlottenc.seamlessdocs.com/f/PTAC.
Visit https://www.charlottenc.gov/CATS/Get-to-Know-CATS/Boards-and-Commissions/Public-Transit-Advisory-Committee-PTAC to learn more about the committee and requirements for appointment.
2. NONPROFIT UPDATES
LAMPLIGHTER INN COMMUNITY UPDATE DECEMBER 2024
Current Situation
Today marks another significant day in the relocation of long-term residents from the Lamplighter Inn. Our residents are being temporarily housed at various hotels while we work toward permanent housing solutions. City officials and code enforcement have increased their involvement in the closure process.
Ongoing Challenges
Our residents have endured numerous hardships, including:
Lack of basic utilities (water, electricity, hot water)
Loss of access to their rooms
Safety concerns from unauthorized individuals
Property owner's continued absence and lack of accountability
Community Progress
Despite these challenges, we've seen remarkable progress through community effort: - Formation of a resident council comprised of engaged community members
Successful coordination between multiple support agencies
Growing advocacy for systemic change in housing security
How You Can Help
Immediate Support: Attend upcoming city council meetings to support Lamplighter residents and donate winter essentials including:
Warm clothing
Coats
Small appliances
Sponsor a family for Christmas
Long-term Assistance: Provide employment connections or job training opportunities; Volunteer as a youth tutor; Offer workshops on housing sustainability; Donate furniture (once permanent housing is secured); Share expertise in housing security
Additional Ways to Contribute: Send letters of support to residents; Conduct educational workshops; Participate in community building activities
Moving Forward
While we celebrate the momentum of "housing for all," we acknowledge that preventing future displacement requires accountability at all levels - from property owners to city officials to community members. We must work together to break the cycle of housing insecurity.
Contact Information: Text or leave a message: 980-230-8355 - Email: kineticworksclt@gmail.com
We extend our deepest gratitude to all community members who have donated and supported our residents through this challenging transition. Your continued support is crucial as we work toward permanent solutions.
Together, we can create lasting change in our community.
HB10 ORGANIZING
Stefania Arteaga | stefania@carolinamigrantnetwork.org
Madison Burke | mburke@cwsglobal.org
HB10 mandates that local law enforcement investigate the immigration status of every person brought to a North Carolina jail, regardless of whether they have been charged with a crime. CWS Global and Carolina Migrant Network (CMN) are organizing in response to this bill which they believe will undermine many immigrants’ sense of safety and trust within their communities. CMN represents individuals in removal proceedings at no cost. We represent individuals detained by DHS, and people who are not detained. We are the only nonprofit in the Carolinas that represents individuals detained by DHS free of charge. In addition, CMN hosts asylum clinics where individuals can meet with an attorney who assists in preparing and filing their asylum application, and conducts informational Know-Your-Rights sessions for communities across the state.
There are also good documents to help folks think through these issues here:
Madison Burke | mburke@cwsglobal.org | (M) 919.520.1071 | (O) 919.680.4310
Migrant Services Coordinator CWS Durham Immigrant Solidarity Fund
504 W Chapel Hill St, Suite 106 | Durham, NC 27701
The ISF is a state-wide, grassroots effort to support undocumented immigrant families who are facing financial hardship due to natural disaster, emergency, or ICE detention or deportation. 100% of all gifts go directly to families, as overhead costs are covered by another funding source. We work in several counties throughout the state, including the Triangle, Triad, Charlotte, Asheville, and Greenville areas. Since the program’s inception in 2019, we have distributed over $1.1 million in cash assistance to vulnerable families across the five regional funds.
The Charlotte ISF serves undocumented families in Mecklenburg, Cabarrus, and Union counties. There are currently 27 families waiting for assistance on the Charlotte ISF waitlist. More information on the ISF is available here: Immigrant Solidarity Fund | CWS Durham.
Donations to the Charlotte ISF can be made at Immigrant Solidarity Fund or via check at
Payable to: “Church World Service”
Memo: Charlotte ISF Mailing Address: CWS, Attn: Mariah Deppe, 504 W. Chapel Hill St. Suite 106, Durham, NC 27701
Feel free to reach out to Madison Burke, Migrant Services Coordinator at mburke@cwsglobal.org with any questions or concerns.
CT Anderson | info@springclean.org
Springclean is a Charlotte-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to reducing textile waste in landfills, fostering sustainable employment opportunities, and educating communities about the benefits of the circular economy. Founded by C.T. Anderson, the organization champions environmental sustainability and community empowerment.
Springclean aims to divert textile waste from landfills, creating sustainable jobs and educating communities on the circular economy through our 4 R’s:
Resale – Selling gently used clothing and fabric items.
Repair – Offering alterations at pop-up events to extend the life of textiles.
Renew – Partnering with artists to create upcycled products.
Recycle – Aggregating remaining materials for use in automotive insulation, acoustic products, and more.
They have 2 specific opportunities:
They are looking for folks to teach the workshops. They start at $25/hour pay. Reach out to CT for info.
They are partnering with The Bulb to run a winter clothing drive for 200 families. You can drop clothes off at the Innovation Barn, 932 Seigle Ave
In addition, they have two upcoming events that may be of interest:
Upcycled Fashion Workshop - Saturday, December 7, 2024,
1:00pm, 932 Seigle AveJoin us on Saturdays for our Upcycled Fashion Workshop where you'll learn how to turn reclaimed materials into fashionable new pieces!
Sip & Sew - Thursday, December 19, 2024, 6:30pm at Innovation BarnJoin us for a chill night of sipping drinks and sewing cool stuff together.
Samantha Turner | samanthacltppc@gmail.com
On November 25, Bishop William J. Barber, II, along with partners and North Carolinians committed to shining a light on the anti-democratic policy violence of the current lame duck supermajority, held a press conference at the NC General Assembly to announce mass mobilization and education on Senate Bill 382. Join the NCPPC for important upcoming actions in Raleigh.
Upcoming Actions:
Wednesday, Dec. 11 (Time TBA) Pack the Galleries (Veto Override Vote)
SHE DREAMS IN COLOR
Jennifer Moxley | shedreamsincolor@sunshinemedianetwork.com | 631-943-2189
Founder & Executive Director
She Dreams In Color Foundation is hoping to raise funds to help 100 women receive a mental health care plan. That's eight sessions of therapy provided at discounted rates for us by our designated providers. Our funds will go to women who live below Federal poverty, in one of six Mecklenburg County health disparity zip codes, and identify as Black, Indigenous, Asian, Hispanic, or other women of color.
We also have a volunteer event we can bring to your house of worship where your community fills out postcards to Future Self. They write a postcard to themselves in the third person which is a therapeutic modality. This method is proven to help because research shows we are kinder to ourselves and more hopeful when speaking in the third person. Our organization will mail the postcards back to you in two months. It's been a wonderful surprise for the women we've sent them to so far.
You can also complete postcards for other women in your life and we encourage you to write a postcard to a therapist in Charlotte who is doing the underappreciated work of healing our community.
Email SheDreamsInColor@SunshineMediaNetwork.com for more details.
Donate to our campaign here and consider sponsoring one hour of therapy at $100 each month.
THE PARK COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION Holiday Drive
Lauren Grant | lauren@theparkcdc.org
The Park CDC's is gathering non-perishable food items and household goods for the holidays to support our seniors at Gilfiel Park this holiday season. We have time slots for folks to drop off if they can and are interested. Check out the signupgenius for what needs donating and to sign up to contribute: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0949ABAA2BA7FDC43-53475843-gilfield. They are collecting through Dec 14th when they are hosting a holiday party for the seniors.
Casey Mesaeh | casey@charlottetranshealth.org
Charlotte Trans Health (CTH) is a compassionate collective of healthcare providers from diverse backgrounds committed to a mission centered on reducing health and healthcare disparities for those with diverse sexual and gender identities.
Join Charlotte Trans Health and Care Share at The Drop (5114 Monroe rd.) on Thursday December 12 (12/12) from 3-6pm to receive information about health insurance coverage of gender affirming healthcare and explore your coverage options. Trained enrollment assisters will be available to provide 1 on 1 guidance on selecting and applying for a health insurance plan. Boxed meals will also be provided for all attendees. Walk-in are welcome, but registering will ensure your appointment time with an enrollment assister. Non-trans people are also welcome to access this resource. They will also have a legal name change clinic along with some financial support for that process.
Folks can register to attend using this form (link below)
They would also like to do more programming in the new year on trans experiences and related issues in the faith community. Please reach out if you would like more information.
ourBRIDGEs COAT DRIVE EFFORT
Sandra B. Kitembo | sandra@joinourbridge.org
ourBRIDGE is a Charlotte-based 501(c)(3) organization that fosters the education, acculturation, and well-being of refugee and immigrant families through out-of-school programs and comprehensive, culturally-responsive wraparound support to hundreds of families from all over the world. They are collecting Coats, Winter Accessories and Blankets for all ages and sizes, including adult sizes from now until December 16th!! Please reach out to volunteering@joinourbridge.org or call us at 980-272-6022 with any questions. They are open M-Fri from 11 am -6:30 pm at 3925 Willard Farrow Drive, just off Shamrock. Please ensure donations are washed and folded.
Nicole Fortoso, MSW | nfortoso@cwsglobal.org | (O) 980-390-5556 | (M): 980-401-0120
Community Engagement Associate
CWS works with unaccompanied immigrant children. They are gathering winter goods through an Amazon wish list. Some folks like to contribute goods that they have knit or crocheted and those are also very welcome. If you or your house of worship would like to participate, please message Nicole.
ROOF ABOVE
Joe Hamby | jhamby@roofabove.org
Christine DeLia, CAVNC, Community Engagement Officer, 704-334-3187 ext 1028
Below is a list of our current needs for Tenant Holiday gifts. You can also donate through our Amazon Wishlist. The only item not on the wish list is the $10 gift card. Please reach out with any questions.
Below are the current needs for Tenant Holiday gifts:
Gift Bags - 386
$10 gift cards for Food Lion, Walmart - 498
2025 wall calendars with various designs and themes - 397
Doormats (outside or inside mat) - 171
Umbrella -182
Pillows - 30
Blankets - 23
Personal Hygiene (large sizes) Shampoo - 18
MED ASSIST EVENT
Bobbi Hague
Join us Friday, December 13th, 2024 at Camino Health Center in Charlotte, NC for a Free Over-the-Counter Medicine Giveaway and Community Event. Free COVID and Flu vaccines, free health screenings, valuable community resources, additional giveaways and much more! This is one event you don’t want to miss! Brought to you by Atrium Health and @caminohealthcenter
Stefanie Groot | stefanie.groot@anuvia.org | (704) 445-6882
Communications Manager
Anuvia Prevention and Recovery Center is a non-profit drug and alcohol rehabilitation center that has provided services to the Charlotte community since 1958. Whether you are seeking substance use treatment services for yourself or a loved one, have questions about your child’s behavior, or need training for yourself or your staff, Anuvia can help you. Our addiction treatment services include alcohol and drug use prevention, intervention services and programs, drug treatment by court, DWI classes, addiction treatment assessments, alcohol and drug detox, outpatient treatment programs, and inpatient rehab treatment.
They near Randolph and Billingsley. They are seeking donations for several projects. Many clients need warm clothing and undergarments and those donations of clean and unused goods are welcome. They are also redoing their rec room and are seeking puzzles, books, and other entertainments. Please bring them by Samuel Billings Center at 429 Billingsley Road.
Sabrina Johnson | Sabrinaandcrew@gmail.com SabrinaJohnson@JustServe.org, 704-634-7172
JustServe Specialist
With MLK day right around the corner, JustServe is asking non-profits with service opportunities to reach out and ensure their activities are posted on the community board. Please submit directly to the website or you can reach out to Sabrina and she will connect you with a local specialist.
Also please be aware that this is your last opportunity to be a part of the Light The World Giving Machine. It will continue to be available in Charlotte through Sunday night and then move to Atlanta. Don’t miss this opportunity. https://www.hopp.bio/givingmachinecharlottetoatlanta
Suzanne D'Alonzo | suzanne@feedingcharlotte.org | (M) 703-470-8855,
Program Director
Feeding Charlotte focuses on sharing prepared food that is excess. They are looking to add volunteer drivers who live/work in the regions we are looking to expand into (the outlying Mecklenburg neighborhoods as well as the corridors out to Gastonia, Salisbury, and Ft Mill). We will definitely need additional help to move food from 2 summer camps in the Crowders Mt/Gastonia region come warm weather!
There's no minimum time/day commitment for volunteers, but drivers should have reliable transportation and be able to afford a little gas as they drive food point to point.
David Keely
Starting at the end of January 2025, the Reimagining America Project in Charlotte is reaching out to Charlotte residents in zip codes that are challenged when it comes to health & social support services access. Our Health Justice Committee is sponsoring local community listening events, the first one will be held at the Galilee Center on Central Avenue (zip code 28205). Please encourage your clients to attend!
Carolyn Dowdy Caregiver MENTAL WELLNESS
Hello Everyone: We are scheduling speaking engagements or family caregiver workshops into 2025. We go within a 20 mile radius of Charlotte. If you would like to know more, please email me at cdowdy@caregivermentalwellness.com. Happy Holidays (We are a 501 c 3 charitable nonprofit)
3. HURRICANE HELENE RECOVERY UPDATES
We have created and will keep updated two Hurricane-Helene specific pages on our website:
Relief Resources – geared for you to share with impacted people – https://www.meckmin.org/s-hurricane-helene-relief-resources
Ways to Help – ways for you and your networks and communities to respond https://www.meckmin.org/copy-of-hurricane-helene-ways-to-help
If you have things to add, please email them with the subject lines:
“Possible addition to Hurricane Helene Relief Resources” OR “Possible addition to Hurricane Helene Ways to Help”
NC JUSTICE CENTER
Duke Energy has notified us that they will adjust their billing practices for those impacted by Hurricane Helene, but customers must call Duke Energy and speak to someone about their situation and request assistance. If you hear of customers not experiencing the flexibility outlined below,
Please contact Claire Williamson at the NC Justice Center at Claire@ncjustice.org. We want to make sure the company is following through with their commitment to support customers impacted by Hurricane Helene.
THE NC INCLUSIVE DISASTER RECOVERY NETWORK
NCIDRN convenes, facilitates, and communicates a united, inclusive vision for NC communities of well-managed disaster recovery built upon strong community reinvestment strategies, asset-based community development, and equitable opportunity. These minutes from their November 26 meeting have a lot of useful information, especially around policy.
OTHERS ON THE CALL (as time allows)
4. GENERAL INFORMATION
WINTER CLOTHING DRIVE
CT Anderson | info@springclean.org
Founder and Creative Director, Springclean
501 (c)(3) organization dedicated to the circular economy of textiles
JOIN US AT THE WEST MECK HIGH SCHOOL COMMUNITY EVENT
Melissa Philadelphia | Community Navigator | (O) 704-631-1023
When: December 14, 2024
Location: West Mecklenburg High School Community Event
Time: 9:00am-12:00pm
We’re giving away new clothes, shoes, and much more to support our community! Come out and enjoy a day filled with generosity and connection. Spread the word and bring your friends and family! Let’s make this holiday season extra special together. For more information, contact melissa.philadelphia@atriumhealth.org or Jasmine.Pebbles@atriumhealth.org
For the first time since we won DACA in 2012, hundreds of thousands of DACA recipients can apply for health insurance through the Affordable Care Act (ACA). The deadline to enroll is January 15, 2025. We’re reaching out to spread the word so as many DACA recipients as possible can access this quality, affordable health coverage.
We’re here to help DACA recipients navigate the application process. Our latest guide answers common questions, provides critical resources, and includes a state-by-state coverage map. Here’s a quick preview:
Why does this matter for DACA recipients? For years, DACA recipients have been excluded from the ACA, leaving many to forgo necessary health care. Now, they can access affordable health insurance, helping them avoid medical debt, get preventative checkups, and know they and their families are covered should the worst happen.
How can DACA recipients apply for health coverage under the ACA?
Visit HealthCare.gov or state marketplace (e.g., Covered California or New York State of Health) to explore available health plan.
Create an account and complete application. Select “no” when asked about being a citizen or U.S. national and “yes” when asked eligible immigration status for the purposes of Marketplace coverage.
Enter a Social Security number and/or employment authorization card information in the application to verify identity and status.
Select a plan once confirmed eligible to apply for coverage.
Answers to questions like these — and more — are available in our guide. please join us in sharing this information widely so that every eligible DACA recipient has the opportunity to secure health coverage.
Check out our Guide HERE
As stewards of God’s creation, our faith compels us to act on the climate crisis—a present reality impacting the most vulnerable among us. In her latest Voices piece, Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director, explores the U.S. “fair share” in global climate finance and why equitable contributions from wealthier nations are essential to climate justice.
I deeply believe that caring for the environment is not just a moral duty but a spiritual one. God entrusted us with the stewardship of creation, and it is imperative that we understand that the climate crisis is not a distant threat; it is a present reality that not only disproportionately affects the poor and marginalized—the very people that our faith calls us to love and serve—but also communities that have ways and means—for truly no one is exempt from the fury of extreme weather. From a theological perspective, the Earth is a sacred gift, and its degradation is a violation of our divine calling to care for what God has created.
Read more of Susannah’s insights and discover how you can join this vital movement to protect and restore creation for all.
Mondays, December 2 - 23, noon - 1 p.m.
Online
The hallmark of Advent is preparation while waiting. We wait for the incarnation by preparing for its reality, ensuring that when the nativity occurs, we are ready. Similarly, as we await new procedures directed at our undocumented neighbors, we must prepare rather than wait passively.
During Advent, the Council will offer information sessions every Monday at noon to prepare ourselves to stand with our undocumented neighbors, over 360,000 of whom reside in North Carolina. Many of these neighbors live in households with family members who are U.S. citizens or those with legal documents allowing them to stay. How can we prepare to help these families stay together?
Join us this week as Joe Furtick, Associate Director of Immigration Legal Services, Church World Service Durham, will explore different immigration statuses, the meaning of being undocumented, and how these issues affect families in our communities.
Join us during Advent as we wait and prepare. Register now to participate live, or to receive the recordings after the event.
PRAYER FOR LEADERS
Together we will alchemize our pain and grief into courage and energy and action. We will build worlds of love and protection among each other. We will be one another’s refuge. We will refuse to relinquish our humanity. We will harness our rage. We will organize and innovate. We will keep our ancestors at our back, and the children we are laboring for in front of our eyes. We will practice joy. We will summon our deepest wisdom to hold the light and be the light — until there is another chance at rebirth. We will practice the world we want in the space between us. We will make love our compass.
And in our hardest moments we will remember: In every turn through the cycle of human history, people have been thrown in the darkness. And they have a choice — we have a choice: Do I succumb to my despair, or dare lift my gaze and sing a song of love? Do I free only myself, or do I refuse to leave anyone behind?
Revolutionary Love is the call of our times.
I believe this now, more than ever.
Valarie Kaur https://revolutionarylove.org/
NEXT MEETING: Next week from today - Thursday at 11 AM
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