Since we’re almost three weeks into the new year, we thought it would be interesting to look back over 2021. We accomplished a lot together as a community. And we’re so excited to continue serving the Ohio Valley!

Christmas Smiles from Christmas Kids

We were able to serve over 140 families during December. People from the community shopped for their neighbors. Parents came and picked up gifts for their children to open on Christmas morning.

Not only did 300 kids receive presents, but each family also received at $50 gift card to Riesbeck’s grocery store!

Keeping Stomachs & Hearts Full in the Food Pantry

We all know how stressful grocery shopping became over the course of 2021 because of inflation and shortages. Regardless of whether a family was able to work, food bills rose and everyone could feel the pinch.

We are so grateful to our community partners and donors who stepped up to help shoulder this burden.

As a result, 3,070 individuals received nutritional support from our Food Pantry! We will continue to serve long into the new year.

Our Community Gave Thousands of Hours to Neighbors in Need

At the House of the Carpenter, we pour our hearts into dozens of programs. They range from helping people meet basic needs, to providing hope for the future. And each of these programs requires the loving support of our community.

Over the course of 2021, volunteers rallied to ensure everyone in the Upper Ohio Valley could thrive.

• 96 people volunteered their time
• They spent 7,617.25 hours at the House of the Carpenter
• We calculate the value of this time at $217,396.32

Now We Look to the New Year

Although we anticipate similar challenges for the new year, we’re confident that our Love for God and our neighbors will prevail! We’re thrilled to be continuing some of our most successful programs, including:

• Afterschool Productions
• Senior Walking Program
• Dance and Music Classes
• Food Pantry
• Underwear Room
• Thrift Store
• …and more!

And please stay tuned for some new opportunities coming in the next few weeks! We are so excited to continue serving the special people of this beautiful space.

P.S.

We’re so close to completing construction of the Toni and Nancy Bedway Center for Youth! We only have $100,000 left to raise in the new year!

Keep on the lookout for a special Match Challenge to help us with this final push! We’ll be announcing more details soon. If you have the means, we appreciate your support for the Center — or any of our programs!