Dear GRACE Family,
I am sending this Red Letter Alert asking for your help with the newly created GRACE Federal Employee Assistance Fund.
Because of the government shutdown, GRACE Emergency Services are in extremely high demand specifically for government employees who have not received paychecks or other funds. GRACE has been getting visits, calls and questions from distressed federal workers, wondering how they will manage to pay rent, pay utility bills, even feed their families during the longest shutdown in U.S. history. The needs of this population are significant at this point in time and there seems to be no end in sight.
Believe me, we are scrambling right now to set aside funds specific for these families and individuals. I ask that you keep in mind the unique circumstances of this crisis, and that these are the exact situations where GRACE steps in to fill the gap where needs might otherwise not be met. Those affected are our neighbors and family members, who are hardworking, make a decent living, and are at their financial thresholds as they have not received paychecks for two weeks and counting. These families are people with mortgages and other costly living expenses. Because their “income” exceeds most poverty guidelines, they will automatically be disqualified for assistance from other agencies and assistance programs – but NOT here at GRACE!
As a dear friend of GRACE, we know you are aware of our long history of stepping in and assisting families in crisis. We appreciate your past and continued support, and wish to emphasize the dire effects the government shutdown is having on your community. Without your help, our commitment to address these needs while continuing to provide our everyday services, will cause a drain on our funds.
Your support in insuring these families’ needs are met is needed now, more than ever. It is difficult to foresee the long-term effects this shutdown will have, but the time to act is now.
Donations can be made to the GRACE Federal Employee Assistance Fund by clicking here. If making a financial contribution is not an option for you, I ask that you consider including this at-risk community in your family prayers. Join me as we continue to pray for the leaders of our country, and a speedy end to this difficult period.
I am available to answer any questions you may have. Please feel free to call me at (817) 305-4650, or email me at sschaefer@gracegrapevine.org.
Thank you in advance for all you do!
