Christmas in July 2023
On June 22, 2023, the Dallas High Shoals Christian Social Ministry (DCM) announced its new Christmas in July event to support the growing needs of families in the area. “In April of this year, we served 812 children,” shared Leah Hedgpath, Executive Director. “In May, that number jumped to 1363. With the school year and supplemental food stamps ending we are almost back to our pre-covid numbers. Keeping food has become a challenge.”
In addition to seeing spikes in need, the rising cost of food in grocery stores makes it more difficult for the community to purchase food to donate. “Our primary food partners are running low on food we can obtain at no cost to the ministry,” said Hedgpath. “However, we are still able to purchase food at lower prices than the average customer in a grocery store, so we can stretch monetary donations farther.”
To stay ahead of the growing need, the ministry is hosting a Christmas in July event. “It is our mission to help those in need with food and financial assistance. We started as a Christmas assistance program, and we anticipate this Christmas will be more difficult for families. We want to continue to ensure our families are cared for year-round and during the holidays this year.”
The Christmas in July event is an invitation for the community to begin collecting new toys, clothes, shoes, and packages of underwear in all sizes. These items will be distributed to clients during the Christmas holiday and may be dropped off at 305 East Trade Street in Dallas on Saturday, July 29th from 12 pm to 4 pm.
In addition, throughout the month of July, the community is invited to consider a monetary donation or a food donation to help support children during these summer months while school is out. “This is work we share with the community,” said Hedgpath. “We are here because of our amazing volunteers and donors. We are grateful to be part of such a caring and supportive community.” You can make a financial donation online at www.dallaschristianministry.org or drop it off in person on Mondays or Wednesdays from 11 am to 1 pm. “Wear your Christmas hat when you come,” said Hedgpath.
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ABOUT DALLAS HIGH SHOALS CHRISTIAN MINISTRY
The Dallas High Shoals Christian Social Ministry (DCM) started in the '80s as a Christmas assistance program for the Dallas area. It was evident at that time that there was a definite need that went above just the holiday season. They became a nonprofit organization in 1986 supported by the Dallas Ministerial Association, local churches, and members of the community.
Today, their mission is to help those in need by providing food and financial assistance. They serve Gaston County, focusing on the residents of Dallas, High Shoals, Alexis, and Stanley. With donations from the community, Second Harvest Food Bank, and other businesses, they help families in need who live in Gaston County with food and hygiene items. They also partner with the United Way of Gaston County and other businesses to help families in crisis with utility assistance, specific medication needs, and Christmas Assistance.
To learn more or give visit www.dallaschristianministry.org.