Clarendon church launches charity foundation

On Sunday, the Miracle Tabernacle Free Town Church of God of Prophecy launched its foundation.

The church has been engaging the Free Town community and nearby environs with events for over 13 years with activities such as back-to-school treats. But the church hierarchy decided to formalise their giving by forming an official outreach arm of the church.

“It was a challenge dealing with the high cost of clearing gifts donated by friends from overseas, so the decision was taken to go this route,” shared pastor and director Zebulah Aiken.

Youth empowerment officer at the Youth Information Centre in May Pen, Chevelle Campbell, encouraged the church to continue to have a positive impact on the youth.

“When you have a solid foundation it is good.  When you are stewards for Christ you should be looking out for others. Helping should go beyond the walls of the church,” she said pointing out that the foundation should at all times make its aim to mentor, encourage the youth and to find available programmes to help them.

“Sponsors won’t know that you have a foundation if you don’t ‘go out there',”  she said before encouraging the members of the foundation to be involved in meaningful projects such as assisting in school renovation projects or other planned day of activities.

“Sometimes you will have to step outside of your comfort zone to make a difference," she said.

Campbell said being Christians means “excelling” and for that, she urged them to make excellence the hallmark of whatever they do.

In addition to the annual treats, the foundation's initiatives include a welfare programme, and mentorship, with their longterm goal being to establish a homework and training space for at risk youth.

On Friday, December 22 they will be hosting their annual children’s treat.

The launch was also used to appeal for donations and to thank sponsors who have contributed to the church over the years.