A Note from our Executive Director: Our Work in Uncertain Times

Greetings in the name of the One who is called Love,

We hope this finds you healthy and safe as the Covid-19 pandemic continues its march in our nation, and our world. In the midst of these uncertain times,  the trustees and staff of Episcopal Charities, alongside our diocesan family, pause to pray for all those who suffer  as a result of the Coronavirus pandemic.

This outbreak is shining a light on the  extraordinary economic disparities in our communities as well as the relatively shaky social safety net that cannot support those already in poverty . We are aware that the virus infects rich and poor alike, but we are also aware that low income communities are more likely to be exposed to infection. What’s more, most working people and those already living in economic distress do not have savings to navigate a lack of income and mounting bills. While the federal stimulus aims to provide immediate cash assistance to the most vulnerable,  it is clear that both immediate and longer-term support will be necessary  as persons face missing paychecks, eviction and foreclosure, healthcare concerns, and food insecurity. 

Episcopal Charities supports a network social service organizations  across our diocese that provide desperately needed services to those in need. Known as Ministry Partners, their work ranges from housing to mental health, services for older persons, educational resourcing for marginalized communities, and much more. 

On your behalf, I have been checking-in with Ministry Partner CEOs to see how they’re doing in this crisis and ask how we can be helpful. They are a wonderful cohort of leaders whose organizations will continue to provide meals, housing, and other services to vulnerable populations as long as staff and resources hold out. 

Episcopal Charities is committed to the well-being of all our Ministry Partners, and in particular, to those who work at the frontlines of the crisis.  We will be in touch with you again very soon regarding specific need and ways you can help .

As followers of Jesus during this season of Lent, we know how this story ends: “Though the sorrow may last for the night; joy comes with the morning” (Ps. 30:5).

Grace and Peace, Matt Berryman Executive Director Episcopal Charities 

"When peace like a river, attendeth my way,

When sorrows like sea billows roll;

Whatever my lot,

Thou hast taught me to say

It is well, it is well, with my soul."

-Horatio Spafford

Chicago hymnist and lawyer

(1828-1888)