After the long shutdown of our federal government that left thousands in our city uncertain about where their next meal would come from and whether the lights would stay on, it is important that the generosity of the faithful members at Independent Presbyterian Church continues to move. And this season, through the Giving Tree, IPC’s Social Services, and the Children’s Fresh Air Farm, we are reminded that hope is not shut down, and compassion never closes.
SUPPORTING OUR NEIGHBORS EXPERIENCING FOOD INSECURITY
As we clear the Thanksgiving table, hunger and hardship are closer to home than many of us realize. In Alabama one recent report found that 1 in 6 adults and 1 in 4 children face food insecurity. In the city of Birmingham, the poverty rate sits at approximately 24 percent—nearly double the statewide average. With the cold days of winter approaching, more families are turning to local ministries for help.
At IPC, our Social Services ministry stands on the front lines of that response. Every week, our ministry helps people cover utility bills, avoid eviction, access food, meet medical and transportation needs, and build job-readiness through education and training. Behind every number is a story. Like Ms. Sanders, a mother of five who was reported to a local agency for truancy. When a caseworker followed up, they discovered the family had been living in a car after eviction from their home. With remarkable perseverance, Ms. Sanders found work again at her former job, and IPC Social Services partnered with another organization to provide the deposit for a new apartment. Today, her children are back in school and the family is rebuilding stability and hope. Across our city, when folks are facing impossible decisions between paying their rent, the medications or groceries for their family – the social services of IPC is standing with them to help stabilize, equip, and restore dignity.
UPDATES FROM CFAF
This fall at the Children’s Fresh Air Farm (CFAF) has been full of joy, laughter, and community. We kicked off the season with a wonderful Fall Fun Day, welcoming nearly 50 children for a day full of games, crafts, and time together outdoors. We also hosted our first high school Friendsgiving, bringing CFAF alumni back to the farm to share a Thanksgiving meal filled with friendship, reflection, and hope for what’s ahead.
SPREADING JOY WITH ANGEL TREE
As we move into the holiday season, our Angel Tree is helping to spread even more joy, supporting around 130 students with Christmas gifts made possible through the incredible generosity of IPC members and friends.
SPRING SUMMER LEARNING PROGRAM
Looking ahead to the spring, we’re excited to continue growing our after-school program, deepening connections with families, and preparing for another unforgettable Summer Learning Program. At CFAF, every season reminds us of the beauty of community and the difference that love, learning, and laughter can make in a child’s life.
In this season of Advent, as we await the arrival of Christ, let us not miss Christ who is already here among “the least of these.” It is here, where we discover an Advent hope. A hope that looks and sounds like how the fifth-century African bishop Augustine once spoke of it. He said, “Hope has two beautiful daughters. Their names are anger and courage; anger at the way things are, and courage to see that they do not remain the way they are.”
We invite you into that hope this season. In a time of gift giving, we invite you to purchase with a purpose. Honor someone you love with a card from the Giving Tree.
Every donation supports IPC’s Social Services and the Children’s Fresh Air Farm. Together, we proclaim that the light still shines in the darkness—and the darkness cannot overcome it.
