County Connections: Maywood Mission continues its work to assist those in need
“No one is useless in this world who lightens the burden of it to anyone else.” - Charles Dickens
Anyone can fall on hard times. And in the fear and uncertainty of a crisis, it can be hard to know where to turn, and even harder to maintain your hope.
For 111 years, Maywood Mission has sought to bring help and healing to those in need – offering a lifeline of support to those with no place left to turn. From nutritious food to financial assistance, and child care to chapel services, there is almost no need too big or small for the Maywood team to undertake.
“Last year, Maywood adopted a new tagline that we believe helpfully summarizes our work and purpose: ‘relieving burdens, restoring hope, redeeming lives,’ explained Executive Director and Pastor, Jonathan Hanks.
Among the forms of relief made possible by Maywood Mission are those often unaddressed by other social services, including utility assistance and eviction prevention, transportation support, funds for car repairs, appliance purchases, and even assistance with identification and document fees.
And while such challenges can feel insurmountable to those in need, many requests made of the Maywood team can be solved for less than $300 – a small sum to restore the stability of a family in crisis. But not all issues addressed by Maywood Mission are short-term in nature.
One of the most common and overwhelming needs impacting community members is safe and affordable childcare – a central commitment to the work of Maywood Mission.
Currently, Maywood offers both summer programming, and ongoing childcare resources, to support and uplift families of all income levels.
“We currently have 62 children enrolled this summer!” shared Hanks, referencing the ten-week summer camp offered through Maywood’s Childcare & Learning Center.
“We offer a variety of field trips and other fun activities during our summer camp that set us apart. Some of the field trips that we take are to local pools, splash pads, parks, COSI, sporting events, movies and so much more!” he continued.
A highly rated Step Up to Quality childcare center, Maywood Mission also offers a preschool program for children ages 3 to 5. “We guide our learning processes to align with Ohio's learning development standards,” noted Hanks.
For elementary school children, Maywood offers before and after school programming, with transportation to and from school. Current partner sites include Talmadge, Gorsuch West, Mt Pleasant and Medill schools.
When asked if those served by Maywood programs must participate in religious services, Hanks explained,” No, the only requirement for most of our programs is that you are a resident of Fairfield County. We believe that everyone is made in the image of God and therefore worthy of respect and dignity, and therefore seek to serve anyone that comes to our doors in need.”
Though the recipients of Maywood’s services are not asked to participate in a faith tradition, Hanks expressed his gratitude to the churches and local donors of all backgrounds whose support empowers their work.
“99% of our funding comes solely from Fairfield County residents, churches, businesses and organizations.”
In addition to monetary donations, which remain in Fairfield County, contributions of new and gently used clothing, furniture and household items are deeply appreciated. Such gifts may be provided directly to those in need, as well as utilized in Maywood’s thrift store, the proceeds from which support the work of the Mission. “Thrift shopping at Maywood is fun and it’s a great, easy way to help your neighbor,” affirmed Hanks.
A small team of only four staff, Maywood is also welcoming of anyone wishing to volunteer their time. “Maywood receives quite a few donations to our thrift store, and sorting those items is a big task that we can always use extra hands for.”
No matter the size or nature, every gesture of support for Maywood Mission helps lift the weight of the world off the shoulders of local men and women. And, as Hanks affirms, this impact may open their eyes to healing and love in the heart of our community.
“Our programs are designed to relieve a wide array of burdens that members of our community face; affordable childcare, food insecurity, material and financial needs, among others. But meeting these physical needs is just the first step. Ultimately, our desire is that Maywood would be a place where hurting people can have restored hope, and experience the redeeming love of Jesus Christ.”
For more information about the charitable work of Maywood Mission, please call 740-901-3027 or [email protected]. Those wishing to donate to support the services of Maywood Mission can do so at https://maywoodmission-bloom.kindful.com/
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This article originally appeared on Lancaster Eagle-Gazette: Maywood Mission continues its work to assist those in need