February 2026 Connection

Community Care Fund

“Then those who are righteous will reply to him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you a drink? When did we see you as a stranger and welcome you, or naked and give you clothes to wear? When did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?’ “Then the king will reply to them, ‘I assure you that when you have done it for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you have done it for me.’”
-Matthew 25:37-40 (CEB)
 
I suspect that over the last couple of years you’ve heard of the “Community Care Fund” (formerly known as the “Pastor’s Discretionary Fund”). Likely you heard about it either from one of our fundraiser dinners, perhaps even referring someone to it, or maybe even benefiting from it.
 
The long and the short of the Community Care Fund is that there are times when one of our church family members or a neighbor in our community faces challenging times and a water bill, energy bill, rent, medication, or even filling a car’s gas tank becomes an obstacle when making ends meet. Our hope is to be able to be present and able to express generosity by helping our neighbors in these times of need. Recipients may be, but do not need to be, a part of Grand Blanc UMC. As the balance in the Community Care Fund allows, our practice is to help individuals with up to $100 each year. While this doesn’t always meet the needs entirely, the willingness to show care, compassion, and generosity to help offset these burdens is always appreciated. In 2025 alone, we were able to assist 60 people with nearly $4,800 from the Community Care Fund, helping neighbors in our community with rent, utilities, and gas.
 
As I reflect on these statistics from the last year of the Community Care Fund, I give thanks for the generosity of this congregation and donors from the Grand Blanc community who have made this possible. As you may know, the Community Care Fund is not funded through the church’s general budget, but is funded entirely by direct donations to the Fund, either by individual donors or applicable grants. Often, this is achieved through fundraisers, while other times, it is through unsolicited and generous donations.
 
So often, I hear folks express a desire to help others, especially knowing the abundance of need. Please know that the Community Care Fund is a meaningful way to make a difference in the lives of others who are in need.  If you or someone you know is interested in making an above and beyond contribution to the Community Care Fund, either one-time or recurring, please know that donations can be made by cash or check or online by choosing “Community Care Fund” when giving through the church website: www.grandblancumc.org/give.
 
Additionally, if you or someone you know could use assistance from the Community Care Fund, please contact the church office. The process is compassionate, respectful and all personal information is kept confidential.
 
Peace,
Pastor Brian