The Refuge offers access to resources, information, and opportunities for those that find themselves in difficult economic and social situations that they may move from dependence to independence. The Refuge shares the love of Christ in many different ways in their community. Coupon clipping, basic computer skills, household budgeting, literacy classes, workplace opportunities, these are just a few ministry tools that is used to in order to make a lasting impact in their neighborhood.
The Refuge
One of The Refuge opportunities is the “Community Christmas” event. It is designed to give parents an opportunity to “shop” for gifts for their children. Parents register their children and receive an allotted time for shopping. Then while the parents are shopping, the children are in another area of the building being able to participate in a special event. The children have a time of crafts, snacks, games, and conclude with a story on the true meaning of Christmas – the birth of Christ – the greatest gift of all.
This past December we had another great opportunity for ministry. We had over 3,000 gifts, toys, and items donated in order for the families to choose from. There were 64 volunteers that were present to help host, shop, and wrap the gifts. There were a total of 536 children which is approximately 179 families that took part in the event. This event is a great way to minister to the community in that it helps preserve the dignity of the parents as well as giving hope for Christmas. This is just one of the many ministries that The Refuge offers to the people in SE Cleveland.
For more information about The Refuge and what they are doing in their community visit them on www.RefugeCL.org