×
×
homepage logo

Jefferson County Board of Education hears input from Jefferson County Community Ministries

By Toni Milbourne - For the Chronicle | Mar 25, 2022

Jefferson County Community Ministries is located at 238 West Washington Street in Charles Town. Toni Milbourne

CHARLES TOWN — The Jefferson County Board of Education received an update on programs provided by Jefferson County Community Ministries from Keith Lowry, JCCM executive director at the last regularly-scheduled board meeting.

According to Lowry, JCCM is a faith-based organization that is focused on the community to provide multiple facets of assistance and support.

“We have the Clothing Closet and the Food Pantry,” Lowry said, adding that those two divisions of JCCM are more well known than some others.

Lowry said that JCCM begins the process of assistance with intake.

“Intake is the heartbeat,” Lowry told the board members.

He went on to share data on how effective the organization has been and continues to be in Jefferson County. Yearly, JCCM interacts with 1,800 clients and 500 families for short-term assistance. The Clothing Closet has more than 2,000 pieces of clothing going to those in need each year and the Food Pantry sees a revolving intake and output of more than 200,000 pounds of food each year.

According to Lowry, JCCM tries to create healthy eating opportunities for those seeking assistance through the Food Pantry. In addition, JCCM provides not only food that can go home with families and individuals, but also food for members of the homeless community.

Lowry noted that the continued partnership between Jefferson County Schools and the Jefferson County Community Ministries has lasted for years.

“Referrals that come regarding homeless students allow us to help their families and to help keep their students in school,” Lowry said. “We have a health clinic on site to provide medical are including pharmaceuticals to students and their families who have no insurance.”

In addition, JCCM offers day programs to assist those looking for short-term, minimum-wage jobs especially for those who have not recently been in the job market. The programs allow workers to gain experience and work toward advancing in the workplace.

Lowry took the opportunity, when speaking to the Jefferson County Board of Education, to mention that JCCM is working toward negotiations to open a year-long shelter to create housing for families including children.

“This is very exciting for us,” Lowry said of the potential project.