A recent call from a single mom with young children, needing help paying her electric bill. She has moved out of the previous residence to move into another but cannot get service there until the bill at the previous home totals no more than $500; it was once over $3,000 and she has paid it down significantly with help from family and others, but just cannot meet the $500 mark by the deadline. I contact Penelec and then several other agencies in town; between us, we cobble together the money needed and they can now move into the new home – with electric service. Soon after, ICM receives a check from a donor who designates that it be used specifically to help “families.” I call this mom back and she reports that they are doing well, with thanks again for our help. I ask if there is anything they need now, explaining that I have some new funds available. Her reply: not only has she paid off the entire electric bill, but she declines to accept any more help from us; instead, she asks that it go to another family in need.
This is but one example of our work in the community, collaborating with other agencies and faith organizations to provide for the needs encountered. Through a voucher program we administer, we have an on-line database which churches, other faith communities and agencies can utilize as they provide for the needs of the least among us. This is a unique program and vital asset to the community, filling a niche of support no other agency covers. With almost 30 years providing this program and 33 years for our Coats for Kids campaign, ICM is looking to greatly expand all that we offer. We are committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion and everything those descriptive terms embody – and beyond – that this beloved community can be a place of justice and peace for all, opportunity to belong and thrive, a place of joy and love, a real and true home.
We need your support more than ever. Please remember this mom and her gracious good will towards others struggling just as she had. Our community needs all that ICM provides and we need you in order to continue community service. Thank you for your support.
