Care for Kids: A Strong Start for 2026!

At The Local Church, one of the ways we live out love for our neighbors is through our partnership with the Care for Kids ministry. And already in the first two months of 2026, that love is making a tangible difference in the lives of local families.

During January and February, Care for Kids helped 17 children and their families, providing more than $3,000 in direct support. These funds went toward essential items and urgent needs—everything from warm clothing during the cold winter months to foldable floor mattresses, comforters, and sheets for siblings trying to rest while one of them bravely fights blood cancer.

In other situations, support looked different but was just as vital:
• Two nights in a hotel for a family whose home flooded
• A month of rent to help a family avoid eviction while they worked toward stability

These moments remind us that sometimes a little help at just the right time can make all the difference.

Expanding the Mission

In 2026, Care for Kids made an exciting decision to expand its mission. While the ministry has long supported students who qualify under the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act (students experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity), the program will now also serve “in-need” children across Chatham County.

To do this well, Care for Kids met with Chatham County school social workers to better understand the needs they encounter every day. Along with responding to specific requests for individual students, the ministry will now also help stock small school supply closets managed by social workers—so essential items are readily available when a child needs them.

The social workers have already shared a wish list of items they regularly need, and in the coming months we’re excited to invite our partner churches to help meet those needs together.

Thank You

None of this work happens alone.

To everyone who supported Care for Kids throughout 2025—through quarters for laundromats, socks and underwear drives, clothing donations, supplies, and prayers—thank you. Your generosity is helping ensure that local children have the care, dignity, and support they deserve.

And as 2026 continues, we look forward to the ways our community can keep showing up for the kids and families of Chatham County—together. 💛

Sincerely,
Trish Estes, Care For Kids Coordinator