Started in 1978 by a group of church congregations in the city’s urban center to support people living in poverty, this non-profit provides direct service, support and educational opportunities.
“Volunteers are the life blood of JLI” says interim director Michelle Jannazo. “We are blessed to have dedicated individuals who have been consistently volunteering since our inception.”
Clients are referred year-round by case workers from Daybreak, Miami Valley Housing Opportunities, Homefull, Veterans’ Administration and nurses from Montgomery County Public Health. The fastest growing program of JLI is “Passages,” a critical resource that helps men, women and children obtain birth certificates and identification essential for securing jobs, housing, health care and admission into public schools.
“These lifeline documents are essential for obtaining assistance and moving forward,” says Jannazo.
“Some of the people we serve are homeless and living on the street,” she explains. “Some are moving out of homelessness. Some are surviving a crisis and the meals, food pantry and supplies offset living costs. Others are working but still living below the poverty line.”
Last year, the organization served over 15,000 hot meals, shared over 5,500 food pantry items, distributed over $12,000 in household goods and distributed 260 birth certificates.
“Of course, the most powerful thing we do is give hope,” Jannazo says.
JLI asks the community to donate items for its spring drive that can be used to assist individuals and families moving out of homelessness into a permanent residence.
Here’s what they need:
- Toilet paper
- Travel size toothpaste
- Toothbrushes
- New or gently used warm blankets or comforters
- Pillows
- Sheets
- Bath towels
- Sleeping bags
- Silverware
- Pots and pans
- Cleaning supplies including dish soap and sponges.
Donations can be delivered to 239 Wayne Ave., Dayton, from 10 a.m. until noon Mondays and Wednesdays or by appointment. Pick up can also be arranged by calling (937) 331-9440.
OTHER WAYS TO HELP:
- Volunteer
- Host a fundraiser for the organization or donate to the 2017 Annual Fund via the JLI website at www.jeremiahsletter.org.
- A fundraiser is being held at Milano's Pizza on May 25 with 20 percent of sales going to the organization. You're asked to print and take the flyer on the website to participate.
For other information, contact m4jeremiahsletter@gmail.com
Meredith Moss profiles the non-profit organizations in our area in need of specific items. If your group would like to have its wish list included contact Meredith: MMoss@coxohio.com
Please include a photo that reflects your organization’s mission and a daytime phone number.
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