The local chapter of the National Active and Retired Federal Employees (NARFE) recently got a firsthand account of how one of the area’s faith-based ministries is making a difference in Limestone County.

At its April meeting, NARFE members heard Sarah Chadwell, a volunteer coordinator with Limestone County Churches Involved (LCCI), speak about the organization’s efforts to provide emergency food and general assistance to residents in need.

Serving as an emergency bridge for local families and individuals during hard times, LCCI states that its mission “is to mobilize the Churches of Limestone County to transform lives in the Name of Jesus Christ by providing a prayerful and organized approach to meeting the physical needs of individuals in our community.”

Chadwell was introduced by NARFE chapter vice president Judy Wilson, who presented a check from the proceeds of ecumenical Lenten Lunches to LCCI. The Rev. Robert Malone, local resident of NARFE, is also pastor of Village View Methodist Church, as well as one of the ecumenical pastors who was featured during Lenten Lunches.

To date, LCCI states that it has has helped more than 8.000 local households, while providing assistance to more than 19,000 local individuals overall.

LCCI’s food pantry provides perishable and non-perishable items to families of Limestone County. Food pantry assistance is available at 201 North Jefferson Street, Athens, AL. An appointment is required to receive emergency rent or utility assistance through LCCI. Call 256-262-0671 to schedule an appointment.

If you or your organization would like to make a contribution to support the ministry of LCCI, please send contributions to P.O. Box 168, Athens, AL 35612. For more information about Limestone County Churches Involved and its all-volunteer mission, visit the outreach’s website at limestonechurchesinvolved.org.