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News


510 S. Farwell St., Eau Claire WI 54701 • 715.835.3734 Map to the Cathedral

News

 

Chippewa Valley Street Ministry
December 22, 2024
 
The holidays are nearly here, and we wish you all the Happiest of Holidays and a joyful New Year!  We look forward to continuing to serve our unhoused community with your support. With much hope, luck, and work, perhaps we'll see a decline in the need for services. 
 
While many of us enjoy the preparations and activities this holiday season brings, it is important to remember that not everyone can enjoy the festivities. There may not be joy in the colorful sparkling lights or the packages carried by on the sidewalk. In previous years, we have heard that these days are just like any other day, and priorities of warmth and food have to be the primary concern rather than celebrating.  We aren't discouraging anyone from celebrating — if you celebrate, please enjoy yourself!  Keep the people we serve in your thoughts and send some positivity their way.
 
 
We served in the area's first measurable snow on Thursday, 12/19/2024. One of our visitors came over with a shovel and helped us clear an area in which to set up. Once we started, a man came wearing worn-out tennis shoes without socks. We had boots and thick, warm socks to provide for him. A woman came in a summer, spaghetti-strap shirt asking for a hoodie as she had gotten sick over her other clothing. There were many requests for gloves — we need XL and larger gloves. Please note our updated needs list for other needs.  One man told us that without the items we provide, he's certain that people would not survive spending the nights outside. Please know that it's not us that provides that safety — it's the donations from you that we distribute that keep people safe. 
 
From our "family" to yours, please enjoy the upcoming holiday season. Be safe, and take care of yourself and yours.  Thank you for your support.
 
CVSM staff
 
 
 
Our Needs List has been updated, please take a peek.
 
We gladly accept new AND gently used items. 
*Please be sure any used items are clean and in good condition.*
 
## Extra large gloves (+ larger!) and mittens ##
 
Financial donations - we purchase city bus passes regularly to provide to the people we serve for transportation to work, appointments, and general use. These are costly to purchase in the quantity that we need. We also purchase items that are not donated and are limited in our stock.

Hoodies - these are needed year-round. We need hoodies in sizes L, XL, XXL, and larger

Sweatpants - People will layer sweatpants over jeans or other pants. We need sweatpants in sizes L and larger

"Forgotten Snowman Candle Base: Claim It Before It's Gone!

We wanted to quickly let you know that after church during coffee hour this past Sunday, someone purchased a snowman candle holder but forgot to take the base. If that was you, please note that we’ll be holding onto it for the next two weeks. Be sure to pick it up soon!

 

 

 

 Reflecting on the Year at Christ Church Cathedral

As we approach the end of 2024, the Episcopal Church of Eau Claire takes a moment to reflect on the journey we have walked together this year. It has been a year of deep connection, faithful service, and growth, as we continue to be a community that seeks to embody the love of Christ in the world around us.

Our outreach programs have remained a vital expression of our calling to serve others. Through them, we have witnessed the power of compassion and justice in action. Together, we have reached out to our neighbors in need, offering support, kindness, and hope.

One of our most important initiatives, the Needful Things Pantry, has provided essential food and household items to individuals and families facing hardship. This pantry has been a lifeline for many, ensuring that no one in our community is left without what they need to survive and thrive.

Our partnerships with dinners at the Beacon House and Family Promise have allowed us to extend our care to families experiencing homelessness, offering them not just meals but dignity and hope for the future. These ministries have been a reminder that our service is not only about meeting immediate needs, but about walking alongside people during some of the most difficult times in their lives.

The Community Table continues to offer a place of welcome and nourishment for those in need, where fellowship and support come together in a spirit of grace. These programs are a testament to our shared commitment to making a real and lasting difference in the lives of those we serve.

Looking ahead, we are filled with gratitude for the generosity and faithfulness of our congregation. It is through your commitment to living out the values of the gospel that we are able to make a tangible impact in Eau Claire and beyond. We look forward to continuing this work in the year to come, with hope and anticipation for what God has in store for us.

We invite you to join us as we continue to grow in faith, service, and love. May the peace and joy of Christ be with you and your loved ones throughout this holiday season and into the new year.

Blessings to you and yours this holiday season!