WATCH LIVE OR PAST SERVICES ON YOU TUBE:
The YouTube link for the worship livestream is below. Clink on the link, and once on our page, click on the word "LIVE" and you'll be connected to our live broadcast. If you want to watch later in the day, you clink on this same link and follow the same process. I look forward to seeing you tomorrow morning!
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQyjvslUcE-7o-AUWFs3C8g
CHURCH HAPPENINGS
2024 NUMC GARAGE SALE
Our annual garage sale will be on Saturday, April 20, 2024 from 8:30 - 1:30. Early birds may pay $5 to come in at 8 o’clock. At 1:30 we will have a bag sale costing $5 per bag. Among the items that will be available for sale are: appliances, furniture, garden and household tools, sports equipment, holiday decorations, jewelry, housewares, linens, toys, plants and books. There will also be a bake sale with homemade goodies. We will begin to accept donations on Monday, April 8. Donated items may be left downstairs by the elevator. All donations must be clean and in good repair. We will NOT accept clothing, CD’s or DVD’s, nuts, bolts, screws, hardware, craft items nor encyclopedias. The last day for donations will be Wednesday, April 17. We appreciate your support. NOTE: We will not be able to help you get large pieces of furniture to the church this year. If you have a large piece of furniture to donate, we suggest that you advertise it on Facebook Marketplace and then donate the money to the church. If you need help advertising your item, please contact Linda Widomski @ lwidomski2@gmail.com If you have jewelry or purses to donate give them directly to Kathy Mascelli ASAP.
EXPLORING AND CONNECTING WITH OTHER RELIGIONS - GUEST SPEAKER SERIES
NUMC will be hosting some special guests during worship and coffee hour beginning on Sunday April 28. On April 28, Fr. Tito from Siena College will be joining us for worship, and will be preaching. After worship Fr. Tito will join us back in the sanctuary in order to share with us, and to answer questions about the Roman Catholic faith. In the weeks that follow, we will have guests of the Jewish, Hindu, and Muslim faith, who will take part in worship, and then provide time for questions and sharing during coffee hour. Thanks to Gary Thompson for bringing this idea to the forefront, and for helping planning and organization. These would be excellent weeks to
invite guests to church. It will be a rich time of inter-faith dialogue, designed to foster understanding and tolerance in our world which so desperately needs it. Come and bring a friend!
REGISTRATION OPEN FOR ANNUAL CONFERENCE:
Registration is now open for the 2024 Upper New York Annual Conference, being held May 30-June 1 at the SRC Arena, located on the campus of Onondaga Community College in Syracuse. Click here for helpful information, including registration costs and hotel information. If you are clergy or a lay member and need to be excused, please click here to submit your request.
The registration deadline is April 24.
CROP WALK: MARK YOUR CALENDAR AND LACE UP YOUR WALKING SHOES!!
The 2024 John U. Miller Memorial CROP Hunger Walk in Albany will take place on Sunday, May 5, starting and ending from St. Paul's Episcopal Church, 21 Hacket Blvd. This is a new location and will also mean that there will be a new route with no streets to cross. You can also walk virtually wherever you want during the month of May. Your participation impacts individuals and families in more than 35 countries. In many developing nations, people could walk up to six miles a day to get food and water. One in nine people worldwide lack access to clean water and a healthy diet. We walk to show solidarity and bring awareness while raising funds for permanent change. The CROP Hunger Walk is the only nationwide Walk that addresses hunger both locally and globally. To join the team, please go to crophungerwalk.org/albanyny. At the "search" box, type in Newtonville United Methodist Church. To donate by check, please make payable to CWS/CROP and give to Anne Sheffer or any team member. For further information or with any questions, contact Anne Sheffer at asheffer816@gmail.com or 518-489-2180.
YOUTH ZONE PROGRAM
Our new Youth Zone program for teens in grades 6-12 started this past month. Twice a month during coffee hour, Stephanie and other volunteers are gathering with the youth in the youth room for games and snacks, and opportunities to build community together. The kids have given it rave reviews thus far, and we hope to begin having Youth Zone every week as we move into spring.
WEDNESDAY BIBLE STUDY
If you have never checked out our Zoom Bible Study on Wednesday evenings, we encourage you to give it a try! We gather on Zoom at 7pm, and begin with an opening prayer, a few minutes of silence, a song, and then we have a group conversation about the scripture lessons for the upcoming weekend. We often end with a video clip about a contemporary theological idea, and we talk about how it all applies to us right this very minute! We talk about God, and we have fun together too, so come and join us. The link will come out each week from Karin, so be looking for it this coming Wednesday!
FOOD PANTRY
The pantry continues to be a vital ministry. Donations are always welcome and thank you to all those who so faithfully give so that others will not be hungry. Just a reminder that we are in the cold season so no cans or glass things that will freeze and pop should go in the outside pantry until Spring please. The sign-up sheet to help with the pantry is in the coffee hour room. Items to fill the pantry can be found on the shelves in the kitchen and in the non-cold silver refrigerator in the hall. Please email me at any time with questions, concerns or suggestions. Cheryl Assimon: Ahummingbird@yahoo.com
REGISTRATION OPEN FOR SKYE FARM SUMMER CAMP
In the summer months we host a resident Christian summer camp where all youth from ages 6 to 18 are invited to spend a week or more at one of our exciting summer camp programs. Click here to view the program offerings and to register. Brochures are on the table in the Grace Krauss Lounge.
CHILDREN'S CHURCH
Sunday School is now called Children’s Church! During this time our young people will experience church, but on a kid’s level…they will meet in Room 4, immediately following the Kid’s Time in, where they will worship with music and video to learn a new song each week, then they will listen a bible story from an age- appropriate translation, and do a fun activity in response to the reading. Sunday school elements, but in a slightly different format. It will take us all a while to have Children’s Church roll off of our tongues, but we pray that the new name and format will help grow our program!
We are looking for volunteers to help out in Children's Church. You will not have to teach every week, you will be added to a rotation schedule. The curriculum, activity and schedule will be prepared ahead of time by Stephanie Ramkissoon, the Coordinator of Youth and Family Ministries. The volunteers are in charge of administering the lesson plan and aiding the youth in the activity. See Stephanie if you should have any questions!
Steph16ramk@gmail.com
OFFICE HOURS
Nick will be in the church office on Mondays and Wednesdays from 12-3pm. On Thursdays he will be holding “out of office hours” at The Works Café, in the plaza right around the corner. He will be there each week from 12-3…inside if it’s raining or hot, and outside if the weather permits. Just stop by and chat. The coffee is on him!
PRAYER SHAWL MINISTRY
The Prayer Shawl Ministry meets the 2nd and 4th Mondays at 1:00pm in Room 10. All are welcome to attend!
PRAYER CONCERNS
Prayers for those dealing with health issues; Beth, Kathy Maker, Bill Smith, Bill Rainbolt, Barb Rasmussen, Piper Toby, Pat Loz, Christopher Biggs, Stephanie Sherman, Ann Crocker Lawton, Susan C.; those dealing with addiction and those struggling to manage anxiety and fight depression. Contact the office to add or remove a prayer request.
VISITATIONS
If you have someone that would like a visit, please contact Pastor Nick at pastornickbufano@gmail.com
HEALTH FAIR
Saturday, April 13, from 10 AM - 4 PM
First United Methodist Church in downtown Schenectady
The Collaboratory of Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, and First United Methodist Church of Schenectady will hold a Health Fair on Saturday, April 13, from 10 am—4 pm at First United Methodist Church in downtown Schenectady at 603 State St.; parking behind church (gps: 610 Chapel St., 12305). Approximately 25 vendors will be present to provide information on accessing health insurance, elder care, child care, treatment and prevention of some illnesses and much more!! This special event is open to the public, free of charge and will include activities and games for children, and screenings for blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, and bone density. Come to find local resources and learn more about staying healthy and happy! For more information, call 518-487-4117 or visit the church's website: http://www.fumcschenectady.org or Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/fumcschenectady.
DONATION / VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITES
USCRI UPDATES**
As many of you know, the cost of groceries has skyrocketed for families across the country, and this especially affects our newly arrived families who are just getting started here in the Capital Region. To help our clients with that, we do a few things. First, we connect them with their local food pantries where they can get free food and diapers. Second, we have a strong connection with the Bread of Life Food Pantry at the Agape Apostolic Church in Troy. Minister Anthony Lewis there prepares loads of groceries for our families every week, which volunteers then deliver.
And now we are trying out another strategy to save our clients some money in their first few weeks in the United States. The idea is that interested community groups will raise funds to support the first round of groceries that we place in every home before new families arrive. Many of you have volunteered for the grocery runs before in which we use the client's own funds to purchase the food. If we are able to rustle up a few sponsorships, our families will have more cash on hand as they get through those tough first few months.
Contact Kelley Gourley, the volunteer coordinator at kgourley@uscrimail.org with interest.
SPONSOR A FAMILIES FIRST GROCERY SHOP
Three easy steps to help a refugee family in your community today...
1. Your group raises between $150-$350 to buy groceries for a newly arriving family.
2. Contact Kelley Gourley, volunteer coordinator, to relay how much your group has raised.
3. When we have a family of the appropriate size for the amount you raised, you go shop for a family's groceries and deliver them!
Items you may donate to the pantry:
Dry Red Kidney Beans
Dry Lentils
Dry Chickpeas
Basmati Rice **
Fufu Flour (can be bought at African market)
Cooking Oil
Walnuts
Almonds
Peanuts
USCRI WINTER COAT DRIVE
USCRI-Albany needs new or gently used winter coats for our clients. We are also collecting hats, scarves, gloves and mittens, and like-new boots. Use our Amazon Wishlist link to donate: https://bit.ly/3NkgVML or schedule a drop off at 99 Pine Street from 9am-4:30pm Monday - Friday. For questions or to schedule a drop off, please email Kelley Gourley, kgourleyuscrimail.org
ITEMS NEEDED AT USCRI-ALBANY
As always, there a few things we need to stock up on to serve the families arriving this week as well as for the rest of the month. Please share with your networks! Most of these things can be purchased from our Amazon Wishlist here: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/1ZFKJ3IEAZKHF?ref_=wl_share
Most Needed Items as of 04.17.24 (Items in bold print are in great need at this time)
Blankets
Toys and stuffed animals
Backpacks for school
School supplies
towels
Diapers (all sizes) esp. larger sizes
Pots and pans
Baking dishes
Cooking Utensils
Wipes
Pillows
Furniture
Rugs
Twin and full comforters and sheets
Curtains
Strollers
Ramadan Food Drive
Basmati or Jasmin Rice Black or Green Tea bags
Red Kidney Beans Walnuts
Chickpeas Pistachios
Lentils Almonds
Fava Beans Chocolates (nut free)
Canned Tomato Sauce Canola oil / Vegetable oil
Most Requested Items
Strollers
Bikes (for children and adults)
Sewing Machines
Pressure Cookers
Additionally, we have several clients who are going for job interviews, and for the interviews they are required to wear steel-toed boots. If they get the job, we are able to buy the boots for them, but for this trial interview they need some they can wear for just a short time. If you have any that are no longer in use, please let me know!
Hygiene Items
Bar Soap
Body Wash Shampoo*
Shaving Cream*
Razors*
Deodorant
Toothbrushes
Toothpaste*
Feminine Pads (Highly needed)
Toilet Paper
Cleaning Supplies
Mops*
Buckets *
Brooms and Dustpans*
Scrub Brush
Sponges
Floor Cleaner Multi-purpose Cleaner*
Toilet Brush*
Laundry Detergent*
Dish Soap
Paper Towels
Trash Bags*
Household Goods
Large Trashcans w/ Lid*
Small trashcans
Laundry Baskets
Hangers*
Light bulbs Stationary Sets*
AC units and fans
Kitchen
Large Stock Pots*
Tea Kettles-Electric/Stovetop*
Rice Cookers*
Pots and Pans
Baking Dishes
Dish Drying Rack
Soup Bowls*
Cutting Boards
Silverware Organizers*
Dish Towels
Oven Mitts/Potholders Colander
Cooking Utensils
Kitchen Knives
Kitchen Scissors
Peelers
Can Openers*
Plates
Coffee/Teacups
Cutlery
Drinking Glasses
Mixing Bowls
FREE ENGLISH CONVERSATION CLUB
Come practice speaking English
Sunday afternoons at 3:00pm
Westminster Presbyterian Church, 85 Chestnut Street, Albany
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: Drop by once or be a regular
Sponsored by: Journey United Church of Christ, Westminster Presbyterian Church and Refugee and Immigrant Support Services of Emmaus (RISSE)
For more information contact: pastor@wpcalbany.org or Patrice Delehanty: patricedelehanty27@gmail.com
CAPITAL CITY RESCUE MISSION
Newtonville United Methodist Church is presently doing an outreach program for the Capital City Rescue Mission.
We have volunteered to serve dinner on the 2nd Monday of each month from 5:00 – 7:30pm. There are 5 volunteers needed each month to serve the guests. Young volunteers must be at least 16 years old and accompanied by an adult.
Parking is available across from the Mission in a closed DMV parking lot; the group that served in November met at NUMC to car pool. Mandatory: face masks, hair net, gloves and apron, which are all part of what the Mission supplies to the volunteers.
Please contact me if you are interested in this program or have any questions: Gail Cotler, 518-441-4853 phone/text or gailcotler@gmail.com.
SUPPORT THE HUMANITARIAN RESPONSE IN UKRAINE
United Methodists and others wishing to provide humanitarian assistance to the Ukrainian people in the wake of the Russian invasion of their country may contribute to Advance #982450, UMCOR International Disaster Response and Recovery. This fund will provide direct assistance to those in Ukraine as well as assistance to Ukrainians fleeing to neighboring countries.
Gifts to support the people of Ukraine can be made in the following ways:
The United Methodist community in Ukraine, though quite small, is actively engaged in assisting neighbors in need. Global Ministries is in touch with the church’s leadership as well as with church leaders in countries welcoming those who are fleeing from violence in Ukraine.
MUSLIM DONATION CENTER
For those wishing to donate clothing to refugees, please consider the Muslim Donation Center, 350 Troy-Schenectady Rd, Latham. Clothing must washed and not be stained or ripped. All underwear, socks , pajamas must be new and never worn. Bedding must be clean and no stains or rips.
They accept donations on Tues & Sat, 10-12. Tues: 5:30-7:30 PM.
REQUEST FOR COMMUNICATION WITH UNITED METHODIST SENIORS
“I am writing in hopes of getting some virtual volunteers to write letters or send cards to our wonderful residents who are of the Methodist faith. Also if there are any links the church has where services are posted online or have different prayers etc. listed I would love to share that with our residents. We have been doing non-denominational services throughout COVID but our residents have asked for a connection with members of their Methodist faith. I would be happy to answer any questions or concerns you may have and look forward to hearing from you by phone or email.” Cynthia Ellison Activity Director Hudson Park Rehab & Nursing Center 325 Northern Blvd. Albany, NY 12204 (518) 449-1100 ext. 3519 CEllison@hudsonparkrehab.com
OTHER NEWS
THE RESPONSE (UMW Magazine)
The Response magazine is an award-winning publication, is the official magazine of United Methodist Women and is published by the national office. Each issue will touch your heart, stir your soul, and challenge your mind. Topics and issues cover spiritual growth, mission outreach and reports on our local, national and international work. Here is the link: https://www.unitedmethodistwomen.org/response Password Newtonvilleumc@gmail.com; zip code 12110
UPPER ROOM
Daily Devotionals are available at https://www.upperroom.org/devotionals. There is an app available for both Upper Room and Alive Now, so you can get them right on your phone or tablet. Printed copies are available in the elevator alcove.
Are you or is someone you know in need of financial assistance? The church has received gifts from individual's stimulus checks to use the funds to help those who may be in financial need during this difficult time. If you know of someone who may be struggling to feed their family, pay utilities, or otherwise meet basic expenses, please Karin in the office. If you are interested in adding to this fund please send your gift to the church, attention: Kathy Franklin. All donations and distributions will remain fully anonymous.
Food assistance is available through food pantries throughout the Capital Region. If you or someone you know is in need of food, you can locate a food pantry serving your community here: www.thefoodpantries.org
The NUMC Little Food Pantry is available 24 hour per day/7 days per week for anyone in need of emergency food or personal care items. If you would like to donate simply leave your items in the food pantry cabinet, located in the rear parking lot.
Financial offerings can be mailed to the office, either in your regular offering envelopes or marked "Attn: Kathy Franklin" to P.O. Box 7, Newtonville, NY 12128. The GivePlus app is another option that can be downloaded to either iPhone or Android. Simply search by zip code 12128. For electronic giving on a regular basis, please contact the church office and we will put Kathy in touch with you to set that up through Vanco. We sincerely appreciate your continued financial support.
The YouTube link for the worship livestream is below. Clink on the link, and once on our page, click on the word "LIVE" and you'll be connected to our live broadcast. If you want to watch later in the day, you clink on this same link and follow the same process. I look forward to seeing you tomorrow morning!
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQyjvslUcE-7o-AUWFs3C8g
CHURCH HAPPENINGS
2024 NUMC GARAGE SALE
Our annual garage sale will be on Saturday, April 20, 2024 from 8:30 - 1:30. Early birds may pay $5 to come in at 8 o’clock. At 1:30 we will have a bag sale costing $5 per bag. Among the items that will be available for sale are: appliances, furniture, garden and household tools, sports equipment, holiday decorations, jewelry, housewares, linens, toys, plants and books. There will also be a bake sale with homemade goodies. We will begin to accept donations on Monday, April 8. Donated items may be left downstairs by the elevator. All donations must be clean and in good repair. We will NOT accept clothing, CD’s or DVD’s, nuts, bolts, screws, hardware, craft items nor encyclopedias. The last day for donations will be Wednesday, April 17. We appreciate your support. NOTE: We will not be able to help you get large pieces of furniture to the church this year. If you have a large piece of furniture to donate, we suggest that you advertise it on Facebook Marketplace and then donate the money to the church. If you need help advertising your item, please contact Linda Widomski @ lwidomski2@gmail.com If you have jewelry or purses to donate give them directly to Kathy Mascelli ASAP.
EXPLORING AND CONNECTING WITH OTHER RELIGIONS - GUEST SPEAKER SERIES
NUMC will be hosting some special guests during worship and coffee hour beginning on Sunday April 28. On April 28, Fr. Tito from Siena College will be joining us for worship, and will be preaching. After worship Fr. Tito will join us back in the sanctuary in order to share with us, and to answer questions about the Roman Catholic faith. In the weeks that follow, we will have guests of the Jewish, Hindu, and Muslim faith, who will take part in worship, and then provide time for questions and sharing during coffee hour. Thanks to Gary Thompson for bringing this idea to the forefront, and for helping planning and organization. These would be excellent weeks to
invite guests to church. It will be a rich time of inter-faith dialogue, designed to foster understanding and tolerance in our world which so desperately needs it. Come and bring a friend!
REGISTRATION OPEN FOR ANNUAL CONFERENCE:
Registration is now open for the 2024 Upper New York Annual Conference, being held May 30-June 1 at the SRC Arena, located on the campus of Onondaga Community College in Syracuse. Click here for helpful information, including registration costs and hotel information. If you are clergy or a lay member and need to be excused, please click here to submit your request.
The registration deadline is April 24.
CROP WALK: MARK YOUR CALENDAR AND LACE UP YOUR WALKING SHOES!!
The 2024 John U. Miller Memorial CROP Hunger Walk in Albany will take place on Sunday, May 5, starting and ending from St. Paul's Episcopal Church, 21 Hacket Blvd. This is a new location and will also mean that there will be a new route with no streets to cross. You can also walk virtually wherever you want during the month of May. Your participation impacts individuals and families in more than 35 countries. In many developing nations, people could walk up to six miles a day to get food and water. One in nine people worldwide lack access to clean water and a healthy diet. We walk to show solidarity and bring awareness while raising funds for permanent change. The CROP Hunger Walk is the only nationwide Walk that addresses hunger both locally and globally. To join the team, please go to crophungerwalk.org/albanyny. At the "search" box, type in Newtonville United Methodist Church. To donate by check, please make payable to CWS/CROP and give to Anne Sheffer or any team member. For further information or with any questions, contact Anne Sheffer at asheffer816@gmail.com or 518-489-2180.
YOUTH ZONE PROGRAM
Our new Youth Zone program for teens in grades 6-12 started this past month. Twice a month during coffee hour, Stephanie and other volunteers are gathering with the youth in the youth room for games and snacks, and opportunities to build community together. The kids have given it rave reviews thus far, and we hope to begin having Youth Zone every week as we move into spring.
WEDNESDAY BIBLE STUDY
If you have never checked out our Zoom Bible Study on Wednesday evenings, we encourage you to give it a try! We gather on Zoom at 7pm, and begin with an opening prayer, a few minutes of silence, a song, and then we have a group conversation about the scripture lessons for the upcoming weekend. We often end with a video clip about a contemporary theological idea, and we talk about how it all applies to us right this very minute! We talk about God, and we have fun together too, so come and join us. The link will come out each week from Karin, so be looking for it this coming Wednesday!
FOOD PANTRY
The pantry continues to be a vital ministry. Donations are always welcome and thank you to all those who so faithfully give so that others will not be hungry. Just a reminder that we are in the cold season so no cans or glass things that will freeze and pop should go in the outside pantry until Spring please. The sign-up sheet to help with the pantry is in the coffee hour room. Items to fill the pantry can be found on the shelves in the kitchen and in the non-cold silver refrigerator in the hall. Please email me at any time with questions, concerns or suggestions. Cheryl Assimon: Ahummingbird@yahoo.com
REGISTRATION OPEN FOR SKYE FARM SUMMER CAMP
In the summer months we host a resident Christian summer camp where all youth from ages 6 to 18 are invited to spend a week or more at one of our exciting summer camp programs. Click here to view the program offerings and to register. Brochures are on the table in the Grace Krauss Lounge.
CHILDREN'S CHURCH
Sunday School is now called Children’s Church! During this time our young people will experience church, but on a kid’s level…they will meet in Room 4, immediately following the Kid’s Time in, where they will worship with music and video to learn a new song each week, then they will listen a bible story from an age- appropriate translation, and do a fun activity in response to the reading. Sunday school elements, but in a slightly different format. It will take us all a while to have Children’s Church roll off of our tongues, but we pray that the new name and format will help grow our program!
We are looking for volunteers to help out in Children's Church. You will not have to teach every week, you will be added to a rotation schedule. The curriculum, activity and schedule will be prepared ahead of time by Stephanie Ramkissoon, the Coordinator of Youth and Family Ministries. The volunteers are in charge of administering the lesson plan and aiding the youth in the activity. See Stephanie if you should have any questions!
Steph16ramk@gmail.com
OFFICE HOURS
Nick will be in the church office on Mondays and Wednesdays from 12-3pm. On Thursdays he will be holding “out of office hours” at The Works Café, in the plaza right around the corner. He will be there each week from 12-3…inside if it’s raining or hot, and outside if the weather permits. Just stop by and chat. The coffee is on him!
PRAYER SHAWL MINISTRY
The Prayer Shawl Ministry meets the 2nd and 4th Mondays at 1:00pm in Room 10. All are welcome to attend!
PRAYER CONCERNS
Prayers for those dealing with health issues; Beth, Kathy Maker, Bill Smith, Bill Rainbolt, Barb Rasmussen, Piper Toby, Pat Loz, Christopher Biggs, Stephanie Sherman, Ann Crocker Lawton, Susan C.; those dealing with addiction and those struggling to manage anxiety and fight depression. Contact the office to add or remove a prayer request.
VISITATIONS
If you have someone that would like a visit, please contact Pastor Nick at pastornickbufano@gmail.com
HEALTH FAIR
Saturday, April 13, from 10 AM - 4 PM
First United Methodist Church in downtown Schenectady
The Collaboratory of Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, and First United Methodist Church of Schenectady will hold a Health Fair on Saturday, April 13, from 10 am—4 pm at First United Methodist Church in downtown Schenectady at 603 State St.; parking behind church (gps: 610 Chapel St., 12305). Approximately 25 vendors will be present to provide information on accessing health insurance, elder care, child care, treatment and prevention of some illnesses and much more!! This special event is open to the public, free of charge and will include activities and games for children, and screenings for blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, and bone density. Come to find local resources and learn more about staying healthy and happy! For more information, call 518-487-4117 or visit the church's website: http://www.fumcschenectady.org or Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/fumcschenectady.
DONATION / VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITES
USCRI UPDATES**
As many of you know, the cost of groceries has skyrocketed for families across the country, and this especially affects our newly arrived families who are just getting started here in the Capital Region. To help our clients with that, we do a few things. First, we connect them with their local food pantries where they can get free food and diapers. Second, we have a strong connection with the Bread of Life Food Pantry at the Agape Apostolic Church in Troy. Minister Anthony Lewis there prepares loads of groceries for our families every week, which volunteers then deliver.
And now we are trying out another strategy to save our clients some money in their first few weeks in the United States. The idea is that interested community groups will raise funds to support the first round of groceries that we place in every home before new families arrive. Many of you have volunteered for the grocery runs before in which we use the client's own funds to purchase the food. If we are able to rustle up a few sponsorships, our families will have more cash on hand as they get through those tough first few months.
Contact Kelley Gourley, the volunteer coordinator at kgourley@uscrimail.org with interest.
SPONSOR A FAMILIES FIRST GROCERY SHOP
Three easy steps to help a refugee family in your community today...
1. Your group raises between $150-$350 to buy groceries for a newly arriving family.
2. Contact Kelley Gourley, volunteer coordinator, to relay how much your group has raised.
3. When we have a family of the appropriate size for the amount you raised, you go shop for a family's groceries and deliver them!
Items you may donate to the pantry:
Dry Red Kidney Beans
Dry Lentils
Dry Chickpeas
Basmati Rice **
Fufu Flour (can be bought at African market)
Cooking Oil
Walnuts
Almonds
Peanuts
USCRI WINTER COAT DRIVE
USCRI-Albany needs new or gently used winter coats for our clients. We are also collecting hats, scarves, gloves and mittens, and like-new boots. Use our Amazon Wishlist link to donate: https://bit.ly/3NkgVML or schedule a drop off at 99 Pine Street from 9am-4:30pm Monday - Friday. For questions or to schedule a drop off, please email Kelley Gourley, kgourleyuscrimail.org
ITEMS NEEDED AT USCRI-ALBANY
As always, there a few things we need to stock up on to serve the families arriving this week as well as for the rest of the month. Please share with your networks! Most of these things can be purchased from our Amazon Wishlist here: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/1ZFKJ3IEAZKHF?ref_=wl_share
Most Needed Items as of 04.17.24 (Items in bold print are in great need at this time)
Blankets
Toys and stuffed animals
Backpacks for school
School supplies
towels
Diapers (all sizes) esp. larger sizes
Pots and pans
Baking dishes
Cooking Utensils
Wipes
Pillows
Furniture
Rugs
Twin and full comforters and sheets
Curtains
Strollers
Ramadan Food Drive
Basmati or Jasmin Rice Black or Green Tea bags
Red Kidney Beans Walnuts
Chickpeas Pistachios
Lentils Almonds
Fava Beans Chocolates (nut free)
Canned Tomato Sauce Canola oil / Vegetable oil
Most Requested Items
Strollers
Bikes (for children and adults)
Sewing Machines
Pressure Cookers
Additionally, we have several clients who are going for job interviews, and for the interviews they are required to wear steel-toed boots. If they get the job, we are able to buy the boots for them, but for this trial interview they need some they can wear for just a short time. If you have any that are no longer in use, please let me know!
Hygiene Items
Bar Soap
Body Wash Shampoo*
Shaving Cream*
Razors*
Deodorant
Toothbrushes
Toothpaste*
Feminine Pads (Highly needed)
Toilet Paper
Cleaning Supplies
Mops*
Buckets *
Brooms and Dustpans*
Scrub Brush
Sponges
Floor Cleaner Multi-purpose Cleaner*
Toilet Brush*
Laundry Detergent*
Dish Soap
Paper Towels
Trash Bags*
Household Goods
Large Trashcans w/ Lid*
Small trashcans
Laundry Baskets
Hangers*
Light bulbs Stationary Sets*
AC units and fans
Kitchen
Large Stock Pots*
Tea Kettles-Electric/Stovetop*
Rice Cookers*
Pots and Pans
Baking Dishes
Dish Drying Rack
Soup Bowls*
Cutting Boards
Silverware Organizers*
Dish Towels
Oven Mitts/Potholders Colander
Cooking Utensils
Kitchen Knives
Kitchen Scissors
Peelers
Can Openers*
Plates
Coffee/Teacups
Cutlery
Drinking Glasses
Mixing Bowls
FREE ENGLISH CONVERSATION CLUB
Come practice speaking English
Sunday afternoons at 3:00pm
Westminster Presbyterian Church, 85 Chestnut Street, Albany
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: Drop by once or be a regular
Sponsored by: Journey United Church of Christ, Westminster Presbyterian Church and Refugee and Immigrant Support Services of Emmaus (RISSE)
For more information contact: pastor@wpcalbany.org or Patrice Delehanty: patricedelehanty27@gmail.com
CAPITAL CITY RESCUE MISSION
Newtonville United Methodist Church is presently doing an outreach program for the Capital City Rescue Mission.
We have volunteered to serve dinner on the 2nd Monday of each month from 5:00 – 7:30pm. There are 5 volunteers needed each month to serve the guests. Young volunteers must be at least 16 years old and accompanied by an adult.
Parking is available across from the Mission in a closed DMV parking lot; the group that served in November met at NUMC to car pool. Mandatory: face masks, hair net, gloves and apron, which are all part of what the Mission supplies to the volunteers.
Please contact me if you are interested in this program or have any questions: Gail Cotler, 518-441-4853 phone/text or gailcotler@gmail.com.
SUPPORT THE HUMANITARIAN RESPONSE IN UKRAINE
United Methodists and others wishing to provide humanitarian assistance to the Ukrainian people in the wake of the Russian invasion of their country may contribute to Advance #982450, UMCOR International Disaster Response and Recovery. This fund will provide direct assistance to those in Ukraine as well as assistance to Ukrainians fleeing to neighboring countries.
Gifts to support the people of Ukraine can be made in the following ways:
- Online at https://umcmission.org/advance-project/982450
- By toll-free telephone: 888-252-6174
- By check made out to Global Ministries/UMCOR with “Advance #982450-Ukraine” written on the memo line, either mailed and addressed to Global Ministries/UMCOR, GPO, P.O. Box 9068, New York, NY, 10087-9068 or given at or through any United Methodist church
The United Methodist community in Ukraine, though quite small, is actively engaged in assisting neighbors in need. Global Ministries is in touch with the church’s leadership as well as with church leaders in countries welcoming those who are fleeing from violence in Ukraine.
MUSLIM DONATION CENTER
For those wishing to donate clothing to refugees, please consider the Muslim Donation Center, 350 Troy-Schenectady Rd, Latham. Clothing must washed and not be stained or ripped. All underwear, socks , pajamas must be new and never worn. Bedding must be clean and no stains or rips.
They accept donations on Tues & Sat, 10-12. Tues: 5:30-7:30 PM.
REQUEST FOR COMMUNICATION WITH UNITED METHODIST SENIORS
“I am writing in hopes of getting some virtual volunteers to write letters or send cards to our wonderful residents who are of the Methodist faith. Also if there are any links the church has where services are posted online or have different prayers etc. listed I would love to share that with our residents. We have been doing non-denominational services throughout COVID but our residents have asked for a connection with members of their Methodist faith. I would be happy to answer any questions or concerns you may have and look forward to hearing from you by phone or email.” Cynthia Ellison Activity Director Hudson Park Rehab & Nursing Center 325 Northern Blvd. Albany, NY 12204 (518) 449-1100 ext. 3519 CEllison@hudsonparkrehab.com
OTHER NEWS
THE RESPONSE (UMW Magazine)
The Response magazine is an award-winning publication, is the official magazine of United Methodist Women and is published by the national office. Each issue will touch your heart, stir your soul, and challenge your mind. Topics and issues cover spiritual growth, mission outreach and reports on our local, national and international work. Here is the link: https://www.unitedmethodistwomen.org/response Password Newtonvilleumc@gmail.com; zip code 12110
UPPER ROOM
Daily Devotionals are available at https://www.upperroom.org/devotionals. There is an app available for both Upper Room and Alive Now, so you can get them right on your phone or tablet. Printed copies are available in the elevator alcove.
Are you or is someone you know in need of financial assistance? The church has received gifts from individual's stimulus checks to use the funds to help those who may be in financial need during this difficult time. If you know of someone who may be struggling to feed their family, pay utilities, or otherwise meet basic expenses, please Karin in the office. If you are interested in adding to this fund please send your gift to the church, attention: Kathy Franklin. All donations and distributions will remain fully anonymous.
Food assistance is available through food pantries throughout the Capital Region. If you or someone you know is in need of food, you can locate a food pantry serving your community here: www.thefoodpantries.org
The NUMC Little Food Pantry is available 24 hour per day/7 days per week for anyone in need of emergency food or personal care items. If you would like to donate simply leave your items in the food pantry cabinet, located in the rear parking lot.
Financial offerings can be mailed to the office, either in your regular offering envelopes or marked "Attn: Kathy Franklin" to P.O. Box 7, Newtonville, NY 12128. The GivePlus app is another option that can be downloaded to either iPhone or Android. Simply search by zip code 12128. For electronic giving on a regular basis, please contact the church office and we will put Kathy in touch with you to set that up through Vanco. We sincerely appreciate your continued financial support.