October, 2011 UCLC Newsletter
Published Monthly by the
United Churches of Lycoming County
202 East Third Street, Williamsport PA 17701
Phone 570-322-1110 E-Mail director@uclc.org
Rev. Gwen N. Bernstine, Executive Director and Editor
Issued mid-monthly, September through May. Items marked with an asterix may be of special interest to your congregation.
Deadline to submit articles - First of each month.
Volume XXVIII Number 10 October 11, 2011
COME TO OUR ANNUAL ASSEMBLY*
O ur 65th Annual Assembly of the United Churches will be held Thursday, November 17 at Pine Street United Methodist Church, 441 Pine Street, in Williamsport. Parking is available in the lot north of the Church, and handicapped parking is available close to the center door. Registration begins at 5:45 P.M., with the dinner at 6:30 P.M. The evening will include:
✯ Presentation of an Ecumenical Service Award.
✯ Election of officers and new board members.
✯ Adoption of the 2012 Budget.
✯ Theme: Celebrating Our Journey
Attending from each member congregation should be three delegates, the pastor and two lay people. We encourage other interested persons to be present as non-voting representatives of your congregations.
Registration is $11.00 and includes chicken francesca, scalloped potatoes (cheese), orange glazed carrots, cole slaw, roll and butter, assorted cakes and beverage. Each person will also receive an annual report book. Reservations are needed by Tuesday, November 8th. Pastors will receive an information packet via e-mail. Please call the United Churches office, 322-1110 or at uclc@sunlink.net to make your reservation.
CHURCH WOMEN UNITED *
Regina Gross, President - 322-2619
W orld Community Day will be celebrated on Friday, November 4, when women from throughout Lycoming County will gather at the South Williamsport United Methodist Church, 409 Main Street, South Williamsport. The theme for this year is “Living Our Faith, Unlocking Action”. A Fellowship Hour will follow. Parking is available in their lot at the back of the church.
Directions: Cross the Market Street Bridge to Central Avenue, turn left, go 2 blocks. Turn right unto Main Street. The address is 409 Main Street.
Christmas stockings will be collected at this service along with the $3 donations to fill each stocking. These stockings will be assembled on Monday morning, November 14th beginning at 9 a.m. at Pine Street UMC, Wmspt., (free parking signs will be available in the church). Women are welcome to help assemble and package the 1200+ stockings that are distributed to area nursing homes for their residents.
PRISON MINISTRY REMINDER
C lergy: Please check your Prison Green Card that provides you access to the Lycoming County Prison for professional counseling of inmates and for ministry. They expire every two years, so check your card today. Our office has the forms available to update your card.
Visit us at the following web site - www:uclc.org
WEDNESDAY ECUMENICAL LUNCHES*
J oin us from 12 to 1 p.m. for the Wednesday Noon Ecumenical Lunch Program. You are always assured of a tasty $6 lunch, warm, ecumenical fellowship and a thoughtful program designed to enrich your life mentally, physically, spiritually and socially. The parking is free in the Pine Street lot north of the church from 11 to 1:30 p.m. Although reservations are not needed, if you are not a regular attender, a call to United Churches, 322-1110, will help us let our caterer know how many to prepare for.
OCTOBER:
12- Dr. Jackson Hill, Professor of Music at Bucknell University (Retired), Organist, St. James Episcopal Church, Muncy, “Elegy of 9/11: Still In Remembrance”.
19- The Rev. Jeffrey LeCrone, United Campus Minister, Lycoming College, “The Better Together Movement”
26- Flood Relief for Lycoming County and the Region, Speakers from the area.
NOVEMBER:
2- JoAnne Girton, Linda Goodman, Bob Hacker, Lucy Henry, Kay Huffman, Kristin Ivers, Doris Teufel, and Tom Wetzel; Members: Williamsport Music Club, “Academy Award Winning Songs”
9- Dan Doyle, UCLC Christian Social Concerns Committee, “Faithful Budget: Creating a Circle of Protection for the Poor”
15- Mr. Terry Roller, Executive Director, STEP Inc., Success Through Engagement and Partnership
23- The Rev. Kevin Brophy, Pastor, Salladasburg United Methodist Charge “Thanksgiving - 2011"
30- The Rev. Larry Waltz, United Churches Annual Assembly Committee, “Celebrating Our Journey”
POVERTY - A FAITH-BASED RESPONSE*
from our Christian Social Concerns Committee
“Speak up, judge righteously, champion the poor and needy.” (Proverbs 31:9) Now is a critical time to speak up and champion the poor and needy. Federal budget decisions are being made between now and December 23 that will set limits on spending for the next ten years. Few are speaking for the poor and needy. As people of faith we are called upon to speak to leaders in Congress. Jesus commands us to love our neighbor as God has loved us.
Lycoming County Unemployment Rate Increased in July: The preliminary rate of unemployment for Lycoming County for July 2011 was 8.0%. This is the fourth straight month of increase in the local unemployment. These figures translate into 4,700 unemployed persons.
Faithful Budget Campaign: All faith traditions place people who are impoverished and marginalized at the forefront of concern. A community of faith based organizations and religious institutions, are currently advocating for a just and sustainable budget to protect critical programs and support fiscal restraint while protecting the most vulnerable among us. We must not balance the budget on the backs of the hungry and poor, especially as more middle-income families find themselves one paycheck away from dire straits. For more information: www.domestichumanneeds.org/faithfulbudget .
Faithful Budget: Deficit Deliberations – What Is at Stake? Important decisions about our national budget are coming to a head this fall, as a “super committee” of twelve Members of Congress debate spending priorities in an effort to cut $1.2 trillion from our federal debt. These twelve Representatives and Senators will decide whether to make cuts to programs that serve the growing numbers of impoverished people, or to preserve the social safety net. They will choose between rescinding the 2001 tax cuts for the wealthiest Americans, or cutting Social Security benefits and foreign aid. Lifelines such as WIC, Head Start, low-income housing, etc. are serving a growing number of vulnerable families, and need protection.
Faithful Budget: What Can You/We Do? Pray for justice and wisdom to prevail in Congress. Organize a prayer group. Write a Letter to the Editor to speak on behalf of those most in need. Finally call or write to our Congressional delegation to tell them that your faith inspires you to tell them to create a circle of protection around the poor during budget deficit deliberations.
Senators:
Senator Robert Casey, Jr. Senator Patrick Toomey
U.S. Senate U.S. Senate
Washington, D.C. 20510, Washington, D.C. 20510
(202) 224-6324 (202)224-4254
House of Representatives: (Choose ONE)
Rep. Thomas Marino Rep. Glenn Thompson
U.S. House of Representatives U.S.House of Representatives
Washington, D.C. 20515 Washington D.C. 20515
(202) 225-3731 (202)225-5121
CROP Walk
W e had a great day to walk along the river walk and some 300 folk took advantage of the wonderful day for the Greater Williamsport Walk. Now walkers will be collecting their pledges so that envelopes can be returned by their Recruiter by the first Sunday in November. Thanks for your efforts to help those who must walk for their food - both here and around the world.
SHEPHERD OF THE STREETS*
J. Morris Smith, Th. D.,
Contact at: 322-8568
PEOPLE DO WHAT THEY WANT TO DO
...and do not do what they do not want to do. At first this statement looks very slanted, then it looks sort of dumb…like saying all water is wet and there is no water that is not wet. (duh) But, look again. This statement rests on the strength of the human will, that mysterious thrust of what one desires and how one acts upon the decisions that come from desire. The will is free,
that is, it lies at the base of human thought and is personal. The will is distinctive because it makes all thought and action voluntary. Unless one is under duress, a thought, word, or action comes freely. The duress might be physical (from within or without), mental (from within or without), or social (from within or without), or spiritual (from within or without).
The earliest thoughts, words, and actions are placed in the human being by parents, neighbors, media, entertainment, school, church, government, regulations, codes, laws, etc. They are heard and believed by default…there is nothing with which to compare. They are imposed and consciously or subconsciously submitted to, without prior encounter. The psyche (soul) begins shaping itself by experiences, right or wrong, good or bad.
As one matures and has encounters with alternatives to those first exposures, a reshaping that adds to or replaces those first contacts. If the will has not been challenged to grow and be strengthened, these new notions and movements do not impact the formation of the individual.
Poverty can be the result of physical, mental, and/or social impairment where a healthy will has difficulty developing. Generational poverty, however, is more often environmental and provides a deficient atmosphere to challenge a child to overcome, do better, and grow in mind, body, and spirit. The soul in such conditions becomes cocooned in a film of discouragement, darkness, and the status-quo. The will remains static and does not gain strength nor does it have direction by which it grow.
A young man shuffled his way into SOS for an I.D. and I asked him why he needed one as he was in his early twenties, so I thought he might have lost an I.D.. He sat slumped on his backbone, his pants around the bottom of his buttocks, his chin on his chest, his eyes on the floor, and he mumbled his answer. He said he wanted to get a job. I gave him the check for the I.D., but I said that he will not get a job… no one will hire you until you know how to walk like you mean business, sit considerately of yourself and others, pull your pants up, wear a shirt that is not three times too big, tie your shoes, look into the eyes and speak clearly with respect to your potential employer.
Will must have direction, instruction, and example in order to develop well. Parents who have a weakened will from their own childhood, give their children little for them to break out of the cycle of poverty. Most do not know what to will, how to will, and therefore have little willfulness to overcome the blocks imposed on them. Delinquency, dropout, and drugs are the result of generational failure to train children and youth to will to be best they can be.
It is my joy and honor to know many who have risen above their beginnings by experimenting with what they absorbed from good parents, teachers, coaches, ministers, neighbors, and employers. They paid attention to good examples, stuck with school and job, and whether they understood it or not, they developed a healthy, vibrant will to make right decisions and have good goals that, when acted upon, bring the fruits of life well-lived.
_______________________
BOWER SUNDAY SCHOOL LEAGUE
J ohn H Bower Sunday School Basketball League is working to increase the number of youth in grades K-12 participating in their program. Smaller congregations that may not have enough kids to field complete teams may add players from other churches.
Any child who regularly attends Sunday School and/or worship is eligible. Separate divisions consist of grades K-2 and 3-5 [encouraged to be fun/recreational]; and three competitive divisions of grades 4-6; 7-9; 10-12 [with championship playoffs].
The league dates to 1921 when it paid admission to the YMCA for youth to play basketball. In 2006 the opportunity to resume playing games at the YMCA & Picklener Arena, on up to five courts simultaneously, it was a great fit with the league at its peak of 105 teams.
Since then the League has lost almost 10 teams annually and would like to reverse that trend. Registration deadline is Nov. 14 for the upcoming season of games to be played on Saturdays during December, January and February [with two weeks off for the holidays]. You are welcome to attend the next planning meeting will be Monday, Oct. 17 at 7 pm at St. John’s Newberry UMC, Newberry. For more information about the league go to www.BowerBasketball.org.
UNITED CHURCHES FOOD PANTRY
Gail Burkhart, Coordinator 322-1657
T hese past months have been both challenging and rewarding. We have an intern from Lycoming College. She is a blessing; hard-working, compassionate, and willing to jump in and do whatever needs done.
We also have a great new volunteer, who works hard and will keep a flexible schedule, as needed. Your prayers work. Now, we need one more volunteer to serve clients and we'll be good to go. Don't stop storming heaven's gate or thinking about it for yourself. It is such a good thing to do. The appreciation you get from the clients just overflows your heart and my appreciation knows no bounds when we have enough folks to fill the schedule with some flexibility.
Sadness fills our hearts for the two clients who have recently passed away. One was a gentleman who had suffered adversity all his life: cancer took his arm at the shoulder at an early age. But he lead a full life. Then disaster struck two years ago with an 'ordinary' hip replacement. Infection set in and months of struggle later, his 'recovery' was complete; only to have a manufacturer recall requiring a second joint replacement. Recovery seemed good, he came home in a timely fashion then suffered a fatal heart attack two days later. He always had a smile and was so pleasant, a 'role model' in that he showed us all that we can still enjoy life and be nice, even when we've been dealt some tough things.
The other client was a lady who bravely battled breast cancer for 5 years. She had traditional treatments, lost and regrew her hair three times but always smiled, even if she was bald-headed! She lost her fight about six-weeks ago. She finally just wanted to be with her Lord and Savior and we can all understand and respect that, however, she was such a source of inspiration to us that we'll be missing her for a long time. But we're joyous that she is 'home' and finally knows no more pain, no more humiliation because she 'looks different', and doesn't have to deal with the treatments.
We get attached to our clients, just as some of them get attached to us. Each one is special and unique and a child of God that we love and care about. We'll miss these two people but know that they are safely resting in the arms of our Loving Maker and for that, we're happy for them.
Please keep both our clients and volunteers in prayer as we always pray for you, our faithful supporters. Now, more than ever our needs are growing. Heating season is upon us and even though the natural gas industry has provided some jobs for our area, typically, the folks that we serve are under or unemployable. So our concerns grow as the weather grows colder. Our particular food needs are:
ramen noodles saltines canned fruits
tea and coffee powdered creamer sugar
chunky soups oatmeal [packets] canned tuna
jello pudding mix egg noodles
cake mixes frosting canned peas
canned carrots tomato soup cocoa packets
powdered drink mixes
Your donations are best brought Monday mornings. Persons needing food should call and leave their name and number on the answering machine to make an appointment to receive food on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 - 3 and at other times by appointment. Whatever you can do to help will be greatly appreciated. Many thanks and you are constantly in our prayers.
CREATION CORNER
from our Christian Social Concerns Committee
Green Conferences and Festivals
F estivals & conferences upholding God's Green Earth are plentiful. Here are some examples (note that although some are not within commuting distance for you, or have already been held, web sites allow for your on-going on-line educational participation):
► PA Assoc. for Sustainable Farming 21st Annual Farming for the Future Conference "Breaking Ground for a New Agriculture: Cultivating Versatility and Resilience", Feb. 1-4, 2012, State College PA. www.pasafarming.org
► Green Festival, the nation's premier sustainability event, one million attendees (themes: sustainable economy, ecological balance, social justice), sponsored by Green America /Global Exchange, six festivals, five cities: San Francisco 11/12-13 & 4/9-10, Los Angeles 10/29-30, New York 10/1-2, Seattle 5/21-22, Chicago 5/14-15. www.greenfestivals.org
► Carbon Smarts Conference: Learning climate change science anywhere, 11/20-21, www.uml.edu/carbonsmarts Univ. of Massachusetts, Lowell MA
► www.greenbuildingexpo.org re: LEED and GBCs (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, Green Building Councils). Toronto 10/5-6
► Holistic Moms Network's Natural Living Conference: “Holistic Parenting: Mind, Body & Spirit”. 10/1/11 Long Beach CA http://annualconference.holisticmoms.org
► www.MotherEarthNewsFair.com Seven Springs, PA was 9/24-25.
► 5th Annual Natural Living Expo, 9/24-25, Sturbridge, MA www.NaturalExpo.org
► Rootstalk Festival, a Benefit for Cascadia Wildlands, Salem, OR 9/22-25, www.rootstalkfest.com
► Pennsylvania Renewable Energy and Sustainable Living Festival (www.paenergyfest.com) was 9/16-18 in Kempton, PA, sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Renewable Energy Assoc. (www.themarea.org) This is an annual event.
► EcoFest, the Hudson River 8/29/11 www.ecofest.com
► Animal Rights 2011 National Conference, 7/21-25, Los Angeles, www.ARConference.org
EVENTS & OPPORTUNITIES
G iant Yard Sale benefitting Newberry Branch of the New Garment Agency (NGA), Sat., Oct. 22, 8 AM until 2 PM. at St. John-Newberry UMC, Newberry St. Wmspt. Household items, clothes, toys, jewelry, books and much more all to benefit the needy of our area.
I n His Presence 3: will be held in our community from Saturday October 29 to Saturday November 5. Known traditionally as the Feast of Tabernacles, eight houses of worship will host worship on their evening from 6-9 pm. They would like to welcome all the Body of Christ to participate. The theme is “Healing River.” Any questions, or for an itinerary, contact Mike Krall at 494-0299.
C hristmas Baskets of Food and Toys: The American Rescue Workers are making their lists and checking them twice. The application process will begin on Wednesday, Oct. 12. Days and times will be announced.
C oupons Needed: Many of you get coupons you can't or don't use. The Kiwanis Club of Jersey Shore sends those coupons to the retired teachers association who forwards them on to military families to use the PX up to 6 months past the expiration date. To be part of this outreach contact Jeni at Rose View Center Recreation Dir., 570-323-4340 or Mellinger@GenesisHCC.com
E lizabeth Smart to be at Community Arts Center: The Junior League will host abduction survivor, ABC News commentator and author at 7 pm Saturday, Oct. 15. Tickets: $30 - adults, $15 - students. Contact: 570-326-2424 or www.caclive.com.
K elly Willard In Concert: One of the most recognized voices in contemporary Christian music is coming to our area for several free concerts to minister especially to fellow survivors of suicide loss. A love offering will be received. The concerts will be held:
Williamsport:
10/14 - 7 pm - Klump Academic Center, Penn College
10/15 - 7 pm - First UMC, Christian Life Ctr, 601 Market St.
10/16 - 10:17 am - GAP Fellowship, 912 Almond St.
In the Area:
10/16 - 7 pm - Trout Run UMC - Creamery St. off Rt. 14
10/17 - 7 pm, First Baptist Church, 115 S 4th St., Sunbury
W alk to Prevent Suicide 2011: Sunday, Oct 16th from behind the Bush Campus Center at Penn College. Check-in begins at 1 and the three mile walk is at 2 pm. Contact details joesmiller@verizon.net.
P ork and Sauerkraut Supper to benefit Habitat for Humanity: Thursday, Oct. 27 from 4-7 at St. Joseph the Work Parish Fleming Parish Center. Meals will cost $8, children under 10, $4. Take outs will be available.
M aking Strides To End Breast Cancer, is a walk to help create a world with less breast cancer and more birthdays. It begins at 11 am Sat, Oct. 29 in Indian Park. Contact cancer.org/stridesonline or 326-4149.
YOKEFELLOW PRISON MINISTRY (YPM)
Rev. Danesta (Nessie) Whaley, Council Director
Contacts: 326-6868, smileynessie@yahoo.com
O pen House a Success! Thank you! Approximately 60 people came through our doors. Many connected as volunteers, board members, prison officials, chaplains and pastors filling the room with conversation, laughter and intrigue. The fellowship of the body of Christ was a blessing! Several volunteers had an opportunity to share their stories of the benefits and joys of going into the prisons weekly to be HIS Light to those who sit in darkness. If you are interested in being a part of Yokefellow ministry, please call our office and we will get you started. I am also available to come and share at your church or organization.
Here is a testimony from one of our newest volunteers who recently began going into Clinton County. Remember.. There is always room for YOU at Yokefellow.
“It gives me great pleasure to say that as a short-timer serving as a volunteer at the Clinton County Prison, has been a humbling experience. I am certain God sets things in motion and has a plan for us. I see HIS hands on my life. I have been a nurse for 30+ years, often as a prison nurse in both State and the Local facilities. My life was different then so I saw it as a job I liked but didn't see the blessings. My view was narrower, but today I am more focused on Christ and have a broader view of how HE orchestrates, operates and guides me. I know it's God who used my sister, Nessie as HIS vessel to introduce me to this ministry(and I am grateful to her). I would have never imagined that HE would bring me around full circle to be one of HIS servants in the same environment in which I used to work. Now I am serving a higher mission in meeting the SPIRITUAL needs of the females versus their medical needs. What a privilege this is and certainly a BLESSING that I now fully understand. The days I go in to help minister to the ladies, pleases me to see their hunger for the Gospel, share their hearts and most importantly watch their spiritual growth. I pray that what is ministered will stick with them and they will apply it to their lives. As we know though, in Isaiah 55:11, God says "so as my word that goes out from my mouth it will not return to me void." Just knowing this gives me the assurance and peace that HE will work out our salvation and those we are commissioned to serve. Thanks for the opportunity.” -Testimony by Joyce Fairfax,
Volunteer at Clinton County Prison
WHAT TO DO WHEN PERSONS NEED HELP
|
NEEDS |
AGENCIES (Revised October 2011) |
PHONE |
|
1. When persons need a free hot meal.... |
A. St. Anthony Center, 125 E Willow St., Wmspt., Noon - 1 Monday - Friday B. ARW “Love Center”, 115 Howard St, J. S. 11:00 a.m. -12:30 p.m. Mon. - Fri. Linden and JS area C. Sojourner Truth Ministries, 501 High St. (side entrance), Wmspt., Hot Meal Light Breakfast or Hot Lunch: Mon. - Sat. 8:30 a.m.- 1:00 p.m., Sun. 2:00 p.m. Fruit and Vegetables available Tues, Day old Bread/Pastry available Wed.-Fri. D. Antioch Baptist Church, 514 High St. - side entrance - Williamsport Breakfast 8:00-9:30 a.m. Lunch: Noon - 12:45 p.m. Weekdays E. Senior Center Lunches six sites throughout county for people over 60 F. Christ Episcopal Church, 426 Mulberry St. Wmspt. No $ accepted, no ? asked. 1st Saturday evening each month 4-7 p.m. Delivery available (call ahead) G. West End Community Center, 901 Diamond St., Wmspt. 11.30-1, M. & Th. |
326-2244 398-1551 323-1797 323-2425
322-8160
|
|
2. When persons need supplies of additional food......... No appoint- ments needed unless noted. |
A. United Churches Food Pantry, 501 High St. (side entrance) Wmspt. 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. (by appointment) B. Salvation Army, 457 Market Street, Williamsport 9:30 -11:30 a.m. and 1:00-2:30 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday C. American Rescue Workers, 643 Elmira St, Wmspt. M-Th 9 a.m.- 4 p.m. D. ARW “Love Center”, 115 Howard St, J.S. 9-11:30 a.m., 12-2:30 p.m. M-W. E. Sonlight House, 130 Carpenter Street, Muncy (Call to place order) 10 a.m. - 12. Wednesdays, 6:00 - 7:30 p.m. Thursdays every other week G. WIC Program 612 W. 4th St, Wmspt. 8-4 Appointment needed. No emergencies (For pregnant, postpartum & breast feeding women, and for children up to age 5. H. Antioch Baptist Church Pantry, 514 High St., Wmspt, Weekdays 10-12 (call ahead) I. Fairlawn Community Church, 353 Pleasant Hill Road, Cogan Station 1 - 3:30 p.m. the first four Thursdays of each month. (Call first) J. Footprints, 50 E Houston Ave., Montgomery (Call for emergency appointment) 12-1:30 p.m. the 3rd Thursday of each month. (Limited to Montgomery School District) K. Meals on Wheels, Office of the Aging, 2138 Lincoln St., Wmspt. Weekdays 9:00 a.m.-5 p.m. (Assessments needed - must be homebound and 60+) L. St. Joseph the Worker Parish, 711 West Edwin St., Wmspt. Wed. 4-5 pm. M. Food Stamps, Lycoming Cty Assistance Office, 400 Little League Blvd, Wmspt. |
322-1657
398-1551 546-3585 322-7656
494-0414
323-9456 |
|
3.When persons are homeless... |
A. American Rescue Worker's Men’s Shelter 643 Elmira Street, Wmspt B. YWCA (single women only) - 815 W 4th St., Wmspt. C. Liberty House (women and children) 815 W 4th St. Wmspt D. Family Promise (For Families) 804 Sherman St, Wmspt (Office/Day Center) E. Saving Grace Homeless Shelter: 324 Campbell St, Wmspt. referral is needed from the American Rescue Workers or Salvation Army F. Freedom House Women’s Center, 1700 Memorial Ave., Wmspt. (Single women) |
323-8401 322-4637 322-4637 567-7103 323-8401 772-0543 |
|
4.When persons need jobs or Employment Skills and Services... |
A. Career Link Lycoming and Veterans Services, 145 W 3rd St. Wmspt. M, T Th, F. 8:30-4:30, W 8:30 - 7 B. Counseling/Career Disability Svs Penn College, 1 College Ave.,Wmspt. 8-4:30 Weekday C. Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (for eligible persons with disabilities) 208 West Third St. - Suite 102 8 am. - 4:30 p.m. Weekdays E. Experience Works, 400 Lycoming St., Suite 1. M - Th. 8:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. |
601-5465 327-4765 |
|
5. When persons need clothing... |
A. St. Anthony Center, 125 E Willow St., Wmspt. Tues. & Thurs. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. B. American Rescue Workers Thrift Store, 141 S. Main Street, J. Shore 9 -5 Monday - Friday, 9-4 Saturday (Items have a minimal cost) C. American Rescue Workers Thrift Store, 335 Rose St., Williamsport (no vouchers) 9 am - 7 p.m. Monday.-Friday., 9am - 4pm Sat. (Items have a minimal cost) D. American Rescue Workers Thrift Store, 643 Elmira Street, Williamsport. Weekdays 9am -5pm , Sat 9 am-4pm (Items have a minimal cost) E. Sonlight House Wednesdays 10 a.m.- Noon, Thursdays 6-7:30 p.m. biweekly F. From Our Hands to Yours, Clothes for Kids and Adults, Sojourner Truth Min. 501 High St., Wmspt., 10:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Mon., Tue., Wed., Fri. G. Salvation Army Store, 25 W 4th , Wmspt. Mon.- Thurs. 9:30 - 4:30, and 530 Lyc. Mall Drive, Pennsdale M-F 9:30-6, Sat 9:00 - 5 H. Faxon Kenmar Becht Center Thrift Store, 1225 Clayton Ave, Wmspt, Fri. 9-4, Sat. 9-12:30 or by appointment, also household items, referrals to pastor accepted I. Daniel’s Closet, Redeemer Lutheran Church, 1101 Washington Blvd, Wmspt., Free Clothing for Children and Adults. 9-11 a.m. 4th Saturdays monthly J. West End Christian Community Center, 901 Diamond St., Wmspt. (Nominal fee) Monday & Thursday 9 - 2, Tuesday - 9-12, Vouchers available for diapers K. Antioch Baptist Church, 514 High St, Wmspt. Side Entrance, Weekdays 7-1 L. Shepherd of the Streets, 669 Center St. Wmspt., 1st pair work shoes or uniform M. New Garment Agency (NGA): new outfit, coat or shoes for children & adults |
326-2244 398-4311
323-8401 323-1797
546-5509 323-7272
323-2425 322-6538 323-1707 |
|
6. When persons need emergency fuel assistance.... |
A. Department of Welfare (LIHEAP, Regular and Crisis Programs) 400 Little League Blvd, Wmspt., 8:00 a.m. - 5 p.m. weekdays B. United Churches Fuel Bank Administered by STEP Outreach 9 - 5 weekdays (Person must have applied for State Funding) C. STEP Office of the Aging, For persons over 60 years old 2138 Lincoln Street, Wmspt. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. weekdays D. STEP Outreach Office 2138 Lincoln Street, Wmspt. 9:00 -5:00 weekdays |
327-3497
|
|
7. When persons need furniture... |
A. Sonlight House, 130 Carpenter Street, Muncy (When available) 10-12 Wed., 6-7:30 p.m. Thurs. Open every other week by appointment B. St. Anthony Center, 125 E Willow St., Wmspt. (When available) C. American Rescue Workers Store, 643 Elmira St, Wmspt. Monday - Friday 9-4 D. Salvation Army, 530 Lyc. Mall Dr., Pennsdale M-F 9:30-6, Sat 9:30-5 (vouchers) E. Expectations for Women, 854 West Third St, Wmspt - Baby furniture -no cribs M & W - 10 am-5 pm, T & Th - 10 am-7 pm, F 10 am-1 pm F. American Legion Post #1, 10 E. 3rd St, Wmspt:. (available to anyone) |
546-3585 323-8401 546-5509 321-8254 323-9409 |
|
8. When persons need utilities assistance.... |
A. STEP (Limited) 2138 Lincoln St. 9-5 weekdays (Cap for gas), 1-800-844-9276 or B. PG Energy program (Must be on a payment plan) 1-800- C. PPL-CARE (electric) (Must be on a payment plan) 8-5 weekdays 1-800- Operation help program.... a one time payment. D. PPL On Track Program - Through STEP Outreach Office Help for electric bills of eligible persons with reduced monthly payments E. Salvation Army, 457 Market Street (By appointment only) G. Am. Rescue Workers, 643 Elmira St, Wmspt (Limited) Fri-9-4 by app. Extension 12 H. ARW “Love Center”, 115 Howard St, Jersey Shore, 9-3 Weekdays I. Shepherd of the Street, 669 Center St, Wmspt. 9-12, 1-3 Monday - Thursday J. Public Utility Commission, Insure safe reliable reasonably priced electric, gas, water, telephone. Their decision is final. Determination hotline: 1-800- |
327-5485 820-8620 342-5775
398-1551 322-6538 |
|
9. When persons need medical help.... |
A. St. Anthony Free Clinic, 125 E Willow St., Wmspt 7-8:30 p.m. Mon., and 11-12:30 Wed.; Physicals (appointment needed) on the 1st Thursdays 11:30 - 1 B. Susquehanna Health System-Community Health Center, 471 Hepburn Street Mon-Fri - 8-11:30, 1-4:30. appointments required C. SHS Community Dental Clinic 469 Hepburn Street, Hepburn Plaza, 7:45 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. (Accepts medical assistance) Appointments required D. Healthy Kids Help-Line Medical info and help for uninsured children 1-800- E. Healthy Baby Help-Line for infants and pre-natal 1-800- F. Adult Health Insurance information/referral or basic insurance 1-800- G. Lead Information Line 1-800- H. STEP Office of the Aging, 2138 Lincoln St, In home services and referral for elderly I. Hepatitus Testing and Care - Susquehanna Health System - Call for information J. Pennsylvania Department of Health, 1000 Commerce Park Drive K. Hearing Aids Lions Club International Hearing Pgm. - Art Girio L. Penn College - 1 College Ave, Wmspt - Routine Dental Cleaning and Check-up M. Shepherd of the Streets, 669 Center St., Wmspt., Eyeglass/Dental Surgery Ast. N. Covering the Uninsured, 1-202- 1010 Wisconsin Ave, NW Suite 800, Washington DC 20007 O. Adult Insurance for Those with Pre-existing Conditions 1-888- Monthly premium are $283 plus co-pays. P. Healthy Women Project, 699 Rural Avenue, Suite 202, Wmspt. Free pap tests & mammogram for ages 40-60 with no/limited insurance and low/moderate income Q. PA Health Law Project, helps low income families/disabled/elderly obtain health care. 1-800- |
326-2566 462-2742 440-5323 323-3096 321-1000 327-3400 326-1793 327-4500 322-6538 572-2928 321-3131 274-3258 |
|
10. When persons need prescriptions... |
A. American Rescue Workers, 643 Elmira St, 9-4 M-F (Limited) B. Shepherd of the Street, 669 Center St, Wmspt. 9-12, 1-3 Monday - Thursday C. Williamsport Hospital Social Services Dept, $20 once / year on SHS Prescriptions Must have been in ER to be eligible D. PaceNet and Pace - for seniors - Office of the Aging, 2138 Lincoln St., Wmspt. Weekdays 9 a.m.- 5 p.m. E. PA Patient Assistance Program, Dept. Of Public Assistance, 400 Little League Blvd., Wmspt. for 19-64 year olds who do not receive Medicade |
323-8401 322-6538 321-2151 |
|
11. When persons face HIV/AIDS |
A. AIDS Resource, 500 W 3rd St, Wmspt. 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Weekdays (Support services for those infected and affected with HIV or AIDS) B. PA. Department of Health, 1100 Commerce Park Drive, Suite 106 Wmspt. |
322-8448 327-3440 |
|
12.When persons need transportation |
A. Am. Rescue Workers, 643 Elmira St, Wmspt. Emergencies only. Limited (By appointment) B. STEP Transportation (Step Van) 1-800-222-2468 or D. STEP Office of the Aging, 2138 Lincoln St, Free bus pass for seniors 60-64 E. American Cancer Society, Road to Recovery Program (medical appts.) 1-800- |
323-8401 323-7575 323-3096 ACS-2345 |
|
13.When persons need rent... (all services extremely limited) |
A. American Rescue Workers, Fridays 9-4 (families a priority) By Appointment B. STEP Outreach, 2138 Lincoln St, 9-5 weekdays (Must have eviction notice) C. Dept. Of Welfare, Emergency Housing Funds 8-5 Weekdays 400 Little League Boulevard, Wmspt. 1-877- D. ARW Love Center, 115 Howard St, JS, 9-3 weekdays by appointment Priority: families E. Salvation Army - 457 Market St Rent - Security - Mortgage - Mentoring |
323-8401 327-5485 327-3300 867-4014 398-1551 326-9187 |
|
14.When persons have serious drug & alcohol problems.... |
A. West Branch Drug and Alcohol Abuse & Tobacco Addiction Commission Case Management Unit, 213 W. 4th St., Wmspt 7:30 - 4 M-F (call anytime) B. Psychological Services (Outpatient therapy only) Bloomsburg 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Weekdays C: Alcoholics Anonymous - District 48 PO Box 303, Williamsport 17701 D. AlAnon and AlaTeen Williamsport Hospital Conf. Rm 1B, 7 pm Sun. 1-800- E. Narcotics Anonymous, PO Box 1161, Williamsport 17701 F. Alcohol and Drug 24 Hour Referral Line 1-800- G. Sojourner Truth Ministries, 501 High St., Wmspt. Celebrate Recovery Wednesday 10-11:30 a.m. H. White Deer Run - Lock Haven I. Valley Prevention - 520 W 4th St. Wmspt. Suite 2B J. Susquehanna NW Human Svs. Outpatient Mental Health Drug & Alcohol Counselling, 520 W 4th St. Suite 2A, Wmspt. K. White Deer Run - Devitts Camp Road, Allenwood 1-800- L. White Deer Run Outpatient Treatment - 901 Westminster Drive, Wmspt |
323-8543 327-2860 344-2666 327-2678 821-4357 323-1797 323-9940 322-1216 255-2335 321-6127 |
|
15. When persons have a specific need... |
A. Linkage Lycoming 2138 Lincoln St., (Information &Referral/Clearinghouse/ Telephone Reassurance Cathy Stopper B. Crisis Hotline 24 hour National Crisis Service 1-800 C. Special Kids Network & Parent to Parent Information and Referral. Help for kids with disability/health conditions State office, Harrisburg 1-800 D. STEP Inc. 2138 Lincoln St, PO Box 3568, Day Care / Head Start, Weatherization, Training Pgms. E. STEP Inc. 2138 Lincoln St, Funded Child Care. F. Center for Independent Living 210 Market St. Suite A. Serves disabled, M-F 8-4:30 G. North Penn Legal Svs., 329 Market St, Wmspt.8:30 - 4:30 Weekdays Civil cases only. Eligibility based on income and household size. H. Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Hotline/Shelter - 815 W 4th St. Wmspt. For victims of crimes - in crisis - With transient services for Women and Children 1-800 I. Expectations Women’s Center 854 W 3rd St (Counseling. Care & Supplies) M & W - 10 am-5 pm, T & Th - 10 am-7 pm, F 10 am-1 pm 24 hr hotline 1-800 J. West End Christian Community Center - Limited Vouchers for diapers 901 Diamond Street, Williamsport K. Campbell St. Family, Youth and Community Assoc. 600 Campbell St, Wmspt Recreational, financial, educational programs, for children-youth-adults-seniors L. N.W.PA Optical Clinic, 909 Diamond St, Wmspt. Mon-Th 9-2 appointments preferred New prescription classes to low/moderate income persons, $36 starting price M. North Central Sight Services 2121 Reach Road, Williamsport, Weekdays 9 - 4 Serves those with vision loss. N. Shepherd of the Streets, 669 Center St., Wmspt., Birth Certificates and ID’s O. Consumer Credit Counseling Svs. of NE PA, 201 Basin St. Suite 6, Wmspt. Mediation - advocacy - budgeting M, T, W & F., 8:30:-4:30, Th. 11-7, Sat. by appointment 1-800- |
323-8555 601-9510 784-2433 326-4980 986-4550 326-0587 601-9703 327-9070 323-8741 323-6297
323-6627 922-9537 |
|
16.When persons are mentally or emotionally disturbed & or suicidal... |
A. Lycoming/Clinton MH/MR and Children and Youth (24 hr.) 200 East St Wmspt. B. Catholic Social Services - Lycoming 1201 Grampian Blvd, Suite 2G 9-5 Weekdays, evenings by appointment (Counseling/ Pregnancy & Adoption Svs) C. Diakon Family Life Services, 435 W 4th St (by appointment) Monday - Thursday 8-8, Friday - 8-4. Family, Individual, Marital & Suicide Counseling D. ARW “Love Center”, 115 Howard St, JS (Counseling Jersey Shore & Linden areas) E. Suicide Hotline: National: 1-800-SUICIDE(784-2433) Lycoming Cty Crisis Int. |
326-7895 322-4220 326-7895 |
|
17.When persons need pastoral care |
A. Shepherd of the Streets Ministry 669 Center Street, Wmspt. Monday - Thursday, 9 a.m.-Noon and 1-3 p.m. (Both counseling and referral) B. Sojourner Truth Ministries, 501 High Street, Wmspt. 9-3 Weekdays |
322-6538 |
|
18. When Veterans need assistance |
A. The Vet Center (Counseling, therapy & referrals) 805 Penn Street C. Lycoming Cty Veterans Affairs, 48 W 3rd St, Suite 104 D. American Legion Post #1, 10 E 3rd St. |
327-5281 |
|
19. Another Resources |
A. Lycoming County Health Improvement Coalition: A comprehensive online listing |
323-0390 |
|
20. When Flood Survivors need special resources |
A. American Rescue Workers, 643 Elmira St, Social Service Office M-F, 9-3 B. Community Baptist Church, 1853tate Route 87, Montoursville C. FEMA, 740 Fairfield Road, Montoursville - government agencies D. Fairlawn Community Church, 353 Pleasant Hill Road, Cogan Station E. Sojourner Truth Ministries - 501 High St., Wmspt Cleaning Supplies F. Trinity United Methodist Church, 1971 Lycoming Creek Rd, Wmspt G. United Churches, 202 East Third Street, Wmspt. Unmet needs and Resources |
323-8401 433-3002
|
This resource is updated each year in our October newsletter.
EVENTS TO BENEFIT FLOOD VICTIMS:
H arpSounds, the harp duo of Donna Missigman and Wendy McCormick will perform a holiday benefit harp concert at St Boniface Church on Sunday, December 4, 2011 at 2PM. All proceeds from this concert's free will offering and CD sales at the concert will benefit local families and individuals affected by recent flooding. Please come out and enjoy an afternoon of beautiful music while supporting members of our community.
C oncert to Benefit Flood Victims will be held at Saturday, October 22 at 7 pm at Trinity United Methodist Church, 1971 Lycoming Creek Road, Wmspt. It will feature Redeemed, Ron Kelly, Sabrina, Smith, Bob and Sharon Strimboulis and Winnie Schweikart. It is sponsored by Calvary Church of the Nazarene and Trinity United Methodist Church.
DIAL - A - DEVOTION *
Have you called yet?
The number is 322-5762.
It's available 24 hours a day.
D evotions are three minutes or less, change weekdays and once on the weekend, and are designed to lift your spirits and help you to have "A Closer Walk with God." The devotionalists this fall include:
10/10-16 Rev. Ken Wagner-Pizza
10/17-23 Rev. Kathleen Erhsam
10/24-30 Rev. Gwen Bernstine
10/31-11/6 Revs. Jim/ Kathy Behrens
11/7-13 Mrs. Sandy Grier
11/14-20 Mrs. Dorothy Wagner
Listen today and tell others about this ministry!
United Churches is your church E - X - T - E - N - D - E - D in ministry!