We thank the Shady Grove congregation for its prayers and support. There was a great response to our Super Bowl food drive in February. However, this past year was tough. We provided food to 6,200 households (1,400 more than 2022). Those groceries fed 28,000 people (6,700 more than 2022). We provided formula for 1,200 infants (499 more than 2022) and diapers for 3,052 infants (970 more than 2022). In addition, we provided rides for 880 seniors to medical appointments (210 more than 2022). HELP ended the year with a $41,000 deficit. There were adequate funds in our savings account to cover the deficit, but we cannot keep spending our savings like this. HELP made significant changes in its 2024 budget to reduce its expenses. We ended our diaper program to reduce expenses by $25,000. We confirmed that other organizations providing diapers could take our referrals before we ended the program. Baby food and formula will still be available in the pantry. We also cut support for rent and utility assistance, reducing expenses by another $24,000. In addition to cuts, we are working to contact more businesses and other organizations to request donations. These actions appear to be helping. Our cash flow showed a surplus for the first two months of this year. Please pray that our finances will remain stable, and that God will raise up new volunteers to fill our open positions. Most of our clients are Spanish speaking so bilingual volunteers are critical to serving our neighbors. If you or someone you know would be willing to volunteer a few hours each month, please complete a volunteer application. If you have any questions about Gaithersburg HELP, please email Kevin Ramsey.
Please note: The Micah Cart is now located by the church office next to the Check Deposit Slot.
