About Us
Our History, Mission and Vision
Our History
Over 32 years ago, several churches from various denominations in
Chesapeake City came together recognizing there were community needs which could not be met through conventional social service programs.
Today the CCEA continues to address the ever-increasing needs, while developing and overseeing other ways to reach into the community as follows:
Bag of Hope — the CCEA provides the annual dues to the Maryland Food Bank, thus enabling approximately 30 families to acquire groceries at cooperative pricing. Costs associated with groceries are funded by private donations and grants.
Clothing & Household Pantry — In 2010 a storage unit was donated thus starting Clothing and Household Pantry. In August 2013 The CCEA secured a site at St. Basil Church Hall, 227 Basil Ave. Donated toys, household items and clothing are collected and distributed to those in need. Clothing for children & adults and toys ( new & gently used) can be brought to the Complex during business hours.
Community Wellness Program was established in 2013. The CCEA has initiated a program of health education for both groups and for individual counseling. Conducted by registered nurses this program will provide information with a spiritual dimension on living a healthy lifestyle. We will include topics such as health insurance options, nutrition and the importance of exercise. We will also be initiating routine monthly blood pressure monitoring within our member churches.
Emergency Funds— special funding for needs such as rent, shelter, utility payments and prescription drugs for seniors, home repairs (small scale).
The Food Pantry serves over 680 families per year, providing approximately one week of assorted, non-perishable food, perishable and daily care products (when available). Hours of operation 9-11:45 Tuesday and Wednesday.
FAX Service (free) by appointment only.
The Founders' Scholarship Fund for Adult Continuing Education was established in partnership with Cecil College in August of 2008. Funding is dependent solely on the generosity of CCEA donors. The scholarship is awarded to an adult currently in or returning to the workforce. Cecil College seeks those now serving or has served in a volunteer capacity. This scholarship is awarded annually as funds permit.
Vacation Bible School is open to children from across the Chesapeake City area, a week of fun and learning. This program has grown to approximately 100 participants each week and a huge number of volunteers to organize, supervise and execute.
General Funds are needed to keep us operational (electric, fuel oil, phone, insurance, security, grounds maintenance etc.).
·
Our Mission
To serve as a bridge in the service gaps of our community, as they relate to financial emergencies, hunger, education and medical care.
Our Vision
To connect the churches of Chesapeake City through our Christian responsibility of "caring for our neighbor". This is to be done through a range of services including but not limited to financial aid, a food pantry and youth related programs. To continually seek to improve those services we currently provide and to grow both as an organization and in the ministry field as community needs are identified.