The Importance of Community Outreach

By: Carmen Tan | Outreach Worker in Kingston-Galloway

It’s been over a year since the pandemic has changed the way we live. It has changed the way we interact with people, how we work, and go to church. It has changed the way we minister and has caused us to adapt and be creative. God continues to remind us of what it means to have a relationship with someone, what it means to journey alongside a neighbour, and how to truly love. To love a neighbour sometimes can’t be done conventionally but requires effort and time. 

Ashley has been part of our programs since 2018. She enjoys gym time during KIC after-school program and reading time with her tutor at EPIC. In early October, Ashley’s father passed away unexpectedly. Rachelle and Carmen have continued to support the Smith family with the transition of their dear father/husband passing. It has been a couple of long months of trials and challenges. It’s sometimes unimaginable to think about what the Smith family has been through and continues to go through. With each passing problem, other challenges arise for the family. The light at the end of the tunnel seems so far away.

“Search for the Lord and for his strength; continually seek him.”

1 Chronicles 16:11

The Smiths were able to finally move all their furniture back to their apartment after a bed bug infestation. Carmen along with a friend of TCM was able to help them move furniture from the public storage unit to their apartment. The move was a symbolic day. It seemed like everything was starting to settle. The family finally felt like they were home again. 

Annette, being a newly single parent, has been challenged financially. They recently have struggled to pay bills and rent. Rachelle and Carmen felt heartbroken and burdened seeing how many challenges they were going through. The only thing they could do was to pray that God would provide for the Smiths.

God reminds us that He works in His perfect timing and often we do not know what will happen tomorrow. The same day Rachelle and Carmen prayed over the Smiths, Annette called to share with them some great news! The tax return they would receive would be a large sum to help them out for the next few months! They were overjoyed to see God’s divine providence. 

Annette and Ashley enjoy updating Rachelle and Carmen with phone calls throughout the week. Carmen had the opportunity to visit Ashley’s home and jump on a video call with Ashley’s teacher. Her teacher shared how encouraged she was to see community people like Carmen and Rachelle help the Smiths.

We thank God for all these opportunities to build a relationship with the Smiths. We hope God continues to remind us what love is and how to encourage our families to turn to Him.