Christ Abundant Life Ministries

Dear Partners and Friends,

HOW IT ALL BEGAN:

In 2009, we made a startling discovery about the front of our Church building – It became the designated stop for all the neighborhood school buses, serving as the pickup and drop-off spot for children. After school, some of these kids would linger on street corners, a result of their parents being at work. It was during this time that we also uncovered something deeply concerning gangs in the neighborhood were exploiting these vulnerable children by hiding drugs in their school bags to evade the police, putting these young ones at risk of arrest. This revelation prompted us to take immediate action, devising a plan to safeguard these children and prevent potential tragedies.

In response, we initiated a free after-school program, providing a safe haven away from the dangers of gang activity. Here, children could complete their homework, have a meal, and rest until their parents returned from work. One poignant moment during a mealtime in our program stands out – a young girl, just five years old, refused to eat her food and requested to take it home instead. When asked why, she replied with heartbreaking truth, "This is for my mother and sister; we have no food at home." A compassionate volunteer encouraged her to eat, promising to provide a take-home meal, and the little girl obliged. The burden of responsibility on a five-year-old to care for her family was truly overwhelming. Such challenges at such a tender age make it incredibly difficult, if not impossible, to concentrate in school, particularly when hunger and caregiving duties weigh heavily.

This revelation prompted us to bring the issue to the attention of our Church leaders, who promptly mobilized our congregation. Our congregation responded with great generosity, donating funds that enabled us to purchase a truckload of food each month. Subsequently, other organizations like the Food Bank of New York, the United Way, and the New York City Emergency Food Program joined forces with us after learning of our efforts. This collaboration gave birth to what we now proudly call the CALM FOOD PANTRY AND COMMUNITY PROGRAM.

For fifteen years, our Church building, which also doubles as a community center, has stood as the focal point of hope, compassion, and support for the most marginalized members of our community, delivering indispensable services. Through our food pantry, we have served as a lifeline, tackling food insecurities, and guaranteeing that nobody goes to sleep with an empty stomach. Consequently, we nourish more than 23,000 individuals annually.

We are much more than a church with a pantry; we serve as a guiding light of empowerment. Our Youth and Young Adult Programs, as well as the Calm Community Gun Violence Prevention initiative, have been instrumental in reshaping lives, offering direction, and redirecting young minds away from violence. We spearheaded the "Good Neighbor Campaign," collaborating closely with community members to enhance safety in our neighborhood. Then, in 2010, during an incident where a young man sought refuge within our church to evade gang members seeking to harm him, we launched the "Escaping Gang Life Workshops." These workshops provide disenfranchised teenagers seeking an exit from gangs with the tools to become responsible citizens through our work readiness classes and mentorship programs. Many of these youths have now transitioned into young adulthood, actively employed, and making positive contributions to society. Consequently, we have witnessed a decline in crime rates within our community.

THE CURRENT CHALLENGE BEFORE US:

The owner of the building we've occupied for fifteen years has passed away, and their family has opted to put the property up for sale at a price of one million dollars. During a recent visit with a prospective investor, they witnessed the extensive lines of people seeking assistance at our food pantry. The developer had a change of heart, stating that this building was untouchable, and that we rightfully deserved to remain here to carry on our vital community work. Subsequently, the owners have chosen to sell it to us, going a step further by offering to hold fifty percent of the mortgage to support our cause. Now, we must raise funds to secure the remaining $500,000 required to safeguard our cherished building and its future in our community.

This is where you come in. Your contribution will have a monumental impact. Our community relies on us, and we rely on your support. Please consider donating today to enable us to continue our essential work in the Mariner's Harbor section of Staten Island. We operate as a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization, making your donations tax-deductible. We extend our heartfelt gratitude in advance for your generous donation.

With heartfelt gratitude