Newcomers of Catawba Valley Learn about Greater Hickory Cooperative Christian Ministries

HICKORY, NC (December 28, 2016)…Founded in 1969, the Greater Hickory Cooperative Christian Ministry (GHCCM) provides emergency, crisis and intervention assistance to the working poor, homeless and indigent of Catawba County. GHCCM provides financial assistance to those who are about to have utilities cut off, and also assists with rent or mortgage payments when individuals or families are facing eviction. GHCCM’s Medical Ministries provides quality health care and pharmacy support at little cost to qualified adults living in Catawba County. The Hunger and Nutrition Center provides clients with canned food, basic staples, meat and bakery and dairy items. The Thrift Store offers clothing, furniture and household items donated from area businesses and individuals.

These are some of the things members of Newcomers of Catawba Valley learned at their general meeting on December 14, 2016. The briefing was provided by CCM’s Executive Director Linda Gensheimer. Gensheimer also pointed out that the organization is aware of the problems of “toxic charity”, where dependency is established. Instead, CCM provides assistance with medical needs, legal problems, education and training and evaluation in a “wrap-around” approach, which includes help in obtaining disability assistance for eligible clients. A Department of Social Services worker is on site to advise and assist.

Following the presentation and an active question and answer session, NCV program director Dianne Straley presented Gensheimer with a financial contribution from Newcomers to support the work of the organization.

Each calendar quarter NCV supports an area charity with financial and in-kind contibutions which the members bring to general meetings and social activities and programs. The recurring NCV charity for the October-December quarter is the Marine Corps Toys for Tots campaign. NCV member and officer in the Hickory Marine Reserve detachment Kevin McCutcheon presented NCV president Carol Hoover with a certificate of appreciation at the December meeting.

Newcomers of Catawba Valley is primarily a social organization which enables new and long-time residents of the region to meet and make friends and participate in a variety of social activities, including support of area charities and service programs. For information about Newcomers of Catawba Valley see newcomersofcv.com.