Pritchard Park Breakfast Ministry: Meeting Follow-Up

Thanks so much to the 40 people who came to the July 19 feedback session about our involvement in Pritchard Park breakfasts. We learned a lot about the meaning this ministry holds for so many of our members, in particular the opportunity to involve children in volunteering, the chance for members to get to know each other through serving together, and the opportunity to interface directly with those we serve. We also learned about some of the other challenges currently facing Asheville's homeless, including a massive shortage of housing for those who have completed programs and received housing vouchers. This shortage has resulted in long wait times, which result in intense demands on the shelters and their employees to keep these folks alive and supported during sometimes year-long waits for housing. During the meeting, we talked about ways to meet the volunteer opportunity needs of our congregation while also responding to the urgent request for partnership in this housing crisis.

Based on input during this meeting and from others who've reached out to SERVE in the past weeks, here is the path we see moving forward:

    1. Because Pritchard Park breakfasts provide a valuable volunteer opportunity for many of our members, particularly those with children, and because members of the community utilize the meal provided, we will continue taking part in this ministry in the immediate future. Jane Lee Vondette is staying in touch with the organizers of this ministry and will indicate our intention to continue at least through the end of this year.

    2. Because we know Pritchard Park breakfasts duplicate existing services, and we want to ensure our energies are in line with current community needs, we will revisit our involvement in this ministry in the long term. Before this occurs, we will ensure that suitable alternative service options are in place. We will be actively researching other opportunities that will reflect what's most meaningful about Pritchard Park breakfasts while also addressing more directly the needs of those living in poverty, as indicated by our partner organizations.

If you are interested in being part of a group that can identify these service opportunities, or if you have further questions or suggestions, please contact Keaton Hill or any member of SERVE. We will also be soliciting members for another group that will look at ways GCPC can be involved in work around the Asheville housing crisis, so let us know if that interests you. Thanks for your engagement in this conversation and in the ongoing work of helping Grace Covenant best serve our community.

SERVE Council