Operation Reachout
Operation Reachout was established in 2001 to bring temporary relief to those in need. It is a ministry by the congregation to the congregation.
Our Beginning
One of our congregation members had a serious accident in 2001, which left her severely injured. As a result, she had to undergo multiple operations. This accident and her inability to work for an extended period of time, left her and her family with mounting medical bills, a major financial crisis and little food on the table. Some concerned friends thought it through and saw a greater need, not only for that family but for other members of our congregation. So they approached a nutritionist to work out a list of basic essential foods needed to feed a family. With the list in hand and much prayer, the ministry began.
Our Progress
Since the ministry first started, we have received groceries, clothing and money from the congregation on an on-going basis to help those St James members who are going through a difficult financial phase. The ministry has assisted numbers of families. In the past, we delivered food parcels every two weeks, and each recipient was evaluated and monitored for both food and clothing.
The ministry has in recent times moved from these food parcels, and have changed over to a voucher system. This gives individuals the freedom to purchase the food items needed. However, any food, household goods, and clothing donations will still be accepted and distributed as needed. Mostly these are distributed on an on-going basis to the various organisations we support, such as the Salvation Army, the
Our Support Team
We have a team of skilled folk who have offered their services, such as an electrician, a plumber a seamstress for sewing curtains and alterations, a hairdresser, a lawyer, a handyman, a carpenter, and other volunteers who assist on ad hoc basis.
