We are delighted to share exciting news from Just Housing Assistance (JHA), a new ministry of our church. After more than a year of prayer, planning, and preparation, JHA has officially helped its first two clients in securing safe, affordable housing. JHA’s mission is to provide financial assistance to individuals and families experiencing housing insecurity due to unaffordable rents or up-front housing costs by offering help with first month’s rent, security deposits, utility deposits, and/or monthly rental subsidies.
This milestone represents the culmination of many hours invested by JHA board who worked diligently to build a strong foundation for this ministry. Over the past year, our team has developed comprehensive policies and procedures to ensure that assistance is provided responsibly, effectively, and with compassion.
In addition to developing our organizational framework, JHA has been building relationships with community partners who share our commitment to helping our neighbors thrive. We are especially grateful for partnerships with organizations such as The Salvation Army. Their LifNav program offers participants case management, coaching and budgeting support. We believe that financial aid is most effective when it is combined with ongoing support.
And the work continues as we have applied for a community grant that would provide additional resources to strengthen our efforts to address the lack of affordable housing in our community. We will continue to seek other grants to help grow this ministry.
Today, we celebrate more than just the success of our first clients. We celebrate God’s faithfulness throughout this journey. We celebrate the members who invested their time and expertise. We celebrate the generosity of church members whose prayers, encouragement, and financial support have made this ministry possible.
Most importantly, we celebrate the lives that are being impacted. Safe and stable housing provides more than a roof overhead, it offers security, dignity, hope, and a foundation upon which individuals and families can build a brighter future.
As we look ahead, we remain committed to our mission of serving Aiken County residents experiencing housing insecurity through temporary rental assistance, housing support, and partnerships that promote long-term stability. We invite our church family to continue praying for the individuals and families we serve, for our community partners, and for the continued growth of this ministry.
Thank you for being part of this journey. Together, we are putting faith into action and helping our neighbors find a place to call home.
“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ.” — Galatians 6:2
Katherine Hicks, on behalf of Just Housing Assistance Board
JHA Board members:
Allen Hicks, Chair John Carroll, Staff Liaison
Tom Hallman Amanda Crooks
Debra Haney Katherine Hicks
Sam Jordan Rose Ann Pistole
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