“Jeremiah’s Letter supports our most vulnerable community members,” says board president Terry Bruns. “We serve people of all ages from all races, creeds and backgrounds. We operate as a resource for families and individuals in crisis or those moving out of homelessness.
Every week, the organization’s two part-time staffers and a cadre of dedicated volunteers serve hot meals as part of Project Blessing. “Many guests are living on the street so, in cooperation with community partners, clothing, hygiene and household goods are distributed as well, ” Bruns says.
Another aspect of the service Jeremiah’s Letter provides is “Passages” which helps men, women and children obtain birth certificates and identification essential for securing jobs, housing, health care and access to schools.
Bruns says his organization is rare because it serves as a clearing house for services each week. “Case workers from Daybreak, Miami Valley Housing Opportunities, Veterans’ Administration, Volunteers of American and others use our program site as a meeting place to connect with clients,” he explains.
In 2016, Jeremiah’s Letter Inc. provided over 15,000 hot meals, shared over 5,500 food pantry items, distributed over $12,000 in house items and more. “The most powerful thing Jeremiah’s Letter provides is hope,” says interim director Michelle Jannazo.
Jeremiah’s Letter operates out of St. Paul’s Church in the Oregon District, where offices and services are provided. You can help by donating items that can be used to assist individuals and families moving out of homelessness into a permanent residence.
Here’s what they need:
Food Items:
- Canned goods
- Peanut butter
- Pasta
- Macaroni and cheese.
Hygiene Items:
- Travel sized tooth paste
- Tooth brushes
- Shampoo
- Diapers in all sizes.
Household Items:
- Warm blankets
- 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. from 10 a.m. until noon on Mondays and Wednesdays or by appointment. Pick up can also be arranged by calling (937) 331-9440.
OTHER WAYS TO HELP:
Consider attending the Dewey’s Pizza DewMore Monday fundraiser to benefit Jeremiah’s Letter on Monday, Jan. 30. Proceeds from your meal at either the Brown Street or Austin Landing location will benefit programs and services if you place your order between 4-10 p.m. Either dine-in or carry out orders are included. Guests must show a copy of the DewMore Monday flyer, either on paper or a digital copy on their phone or mobile device, to have a portion of their bill donated back to Jeremiah’s Letter. The link to access the flyer is: http://deweyspizza.com/dewmore-monday/dayton/. Guests just need to hit the “Download Now” button to access the flyer.
The organization also welcomes volunteers. Contact Michelle at m4jeremiahsletter@gmail.com for ways to help in the year ahead.
HELPING YOUR COMMUNITY
Columnist Meredith Moss shares information about non-profit organizations in the Miami Valley and their specific needs.
If your group would like to be included, please send information and a wish list to Meredith: MMoss@coxohio.com
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