Matthew 25 Update: Westminster working with First Pres!
As WPC and First Presbyterian have sought ways to work together on mission-related projects, we recently agreed to partner on our Matthew 25 Fund to help those in our Santa Fe community struggling with life issues. Members from both churches are now voting on applications received from the community and vetted through Santa Fe Connect Navigators and other non-profit organizations. We have provided financial assistance to nearly 50 individuals and families since the beginning of 2023.
Who in our community have we helped recently with Matthew 25 Funds? A few highlights:
A mother of three children whose partner – the primary breadwinner – suddenly passed away recently, leaving the family with a minimal income. The mother can only find part time work, cleaning a box store at night. They are in financial crisis. We paid her rent for one month and provided a Walmart gift card for groceries and other needs. We are also looking for other ways to help this family.
A 98-year-old grandmother living on $500 a month from Social Security. She had to install a new heating system in her small adobe home and is now behind in paying her gas bill. We paid her NM Gas bill.
A female cancer patient undergoing treatment who cannot pay her rent due to her health challenges. Her landlords have been threatening to take legal action if she cannot pay rent on time. We helped pay her part of her past-due amount.
An elderly man diagnosed with stage 4 emphysema, is unable to work, and is on hospice. He has received public assistance before and so is not eligible for additional assistance until 2024. We helped pay his past due utility bill.
One of our recent Matthew 25 applicants wrote a hand-written note to WPC, thanking us for our help. His note read: “I thank [you for] all the help you can give me. I believe in Jesus Christ the Lord Almighty and the kindness in all your hearts for trying to help me. Your generosity is a beacon of light for all to see.”
We do this work through your generous contributions to the Matthew 25 Fund. If you would like to donate, please make checks payable to Westminster Presbyterian Church, with “Matthew 25” on the memo line. Your contributions matter to our community.