The resources we need to provide sanctuary at First U

Never has it been more important to be sanctuary. It’s easy to say, but walking the talk, being sanctuary, living sanctuary takes commitment. It takes love. It takes time. And it takes money. 

First Universalist Church is on the front lines of protecting immigrants – beloveds from outside of the country, as well as gender refugees who are U.S. citizens who have fled persecution in their home states. We have a skilled and dedicated team of volunteers who work tirelessly to provide support to the people we shelter within our building, as well as the many people we protect and support in other ways. But this work requires financial resources as well. 

We are currently sheltering four families and it takes almost $35,000 per year to operate our program. That’s above and beyond the direct help with medical expenses, rent, transportation, and other direct needs for which we pay. With Give to the Max Day we can ensure that funding for all of these needs is secure.  

Our board of trustees has issued a challenge: They will match, dollar for dollar, the first $3,000 raised through Give to the Max. If we hit that first $3,000 – and I know that, with your help, we will – with the match we will be well on our way to raising our full $10,000 goal.  

You can give now, or any time up until 11:59 pm on Thursday, November 20th. As a bonus, every Give to the Max gift enters First Universalist Church into one of multiple drawings for an additional $500. You may be the donor who lands a cash prize “golden ticket”!

Won’t you join me in giving today? Give now!

In Gratitude,

Lynn Broaddus, Stewardship Committee Chair

p.s. We know that there are some people who would like to make a special gift to support our sanctuary work, but would prefer to do so by check or transfer of stock. If you are one of those people, Brad Schmidt, First Universalist’s Finance Manager, would be happy to talk with you. He can be reached at Brad@firstuniv.org

p.p.s. Know someone else who is as passionate about protecting vulnerable people as you are? Please pass this forward! Even a gift of $10 makes a difference!