News
You Can Use
For
Your Church Newsletter
From
Lutheran Community Services March 2008
Editors: Following is some information about LCS that
you might want to include in your newsletter. This information is prepared for church
newsletter editors, secretaries and pastors. Your help in getting the word out
is appreciated and will help LCS achieve its mission of “Sharing God’s
blessings by helping others in need.” Comments about format, timing or content
are welcome. Contact
LCS Sets New Records
In 2007, LCS helped 68,414 people. – 7.5% more than it was
able to help in 2006. That’s because the demand just keeps on going up, and
thankfully LCS has been there to help. A big part of the increase was in the
emergency food (LIFE) program and was related to the growing number of folks
coming to our stationary pantries at St. Stephens,
Predatory Lending
As part of its plan to help prevent poverty by getting at the core issues, LCS has developed a strategy that involves advocacy against various forms of predatory lending that exist in our state. We have already begun sending letters to key elected officials including the Governor asking that they take steps to enact legislation against predatory lending activities. Pay day loans are one of the main targets of our advocacy. LCS sees people all the time who are burdened by them, week after week, regularly paying fees to extend their debt. Exotic mortgages, rent to own deals, and high-interest credit cards for at risk people are also concerns. If you are interested in writing your legislators and need help with what to say, contact Steve Tindall at 654 8886, x105.
New HOME Repair Specialists
LCS has added a third home repair specialist to help out with its HOME Program (Home Oriented Maintenance for the Elderly). A fourth home repair person is also being considered. This will greatly increase our capacity to help seniors with their home repair needs. We are also seeking funds to provide more “scholarships” for folks that need help the most.