Over 25 years ago, several churches from various denominations in Chesapeake City came together recognizing there were community needs, which could not or were not being met through conventional social service programs. They began by providing a small food pantry and an emergency funds program. From within their own budgets and through outreach to other community groups, they began to address these needs.

Now this small organization continues to address the ever-increasing needs, while developing and overseeing other ways to reach into the Community. Eight years ago, The Generation Station was created in response to a need for safe, after-school care for middle school age children who would otherwise be latch-key. The program remains today, as a Christian based program where love, security and guidance are priority. The Generation Station receives a portion of its' funding through the CCEA, along with a yearly grant from the Cecil Partnership; and small grants and donations from organizations and private citizens.
The Food Pantry, which operates on Tuesday and Wednesday from Trinity UMC provided 230 boxes of food to families throughout the Chesapeake City area and as far away as Port Deposit & Perryville. These boxes contain approximately 1 week of non-perishable food items. When we are able, we include a Voucher to Acme, which may be used to secure perishable & non-perishable food items. To date this year, we have provided approximately 78 boxes. Though the numbers are down, we believe this has been impacted by fuel costs, which may keep some of those in need from coming in.

The CCEA provides the annual dues to The Delaware Food Bank and partial contribution to Amazing Grace Ministries which in turn allows 45 low income families and seniors to purchase food at cooperative prices at the Food Bank; and they can obtain a mix of perishable and non-perishable items through Amazing Grace. This ministry has operated for nearly 15 years, and continues to have a waiting list.
The Emergency Funds Program helped 44 families in 2005 with utility bills, portions of rent or mortgages, and prescription costs. These families are usually at the point of having utilities cut off or facing eviction. This year we have had to turn families away, because our funds are dangerously low. With the anticipation of increases in electric and heating costs, we fully anticipate the need for help will grow.
It should be noted that 98% of all funding goes directly to the ministries. Our only overhead expenses are a telephone and a postal box at the Chesapeake City post office.

Thanks to all who supported our ministries through participation in the Silent Auction  on 17 Janurary 2009.

We thank you for your consideration.

Eileen Stubbs Viars

President, Chesapeake City Ecumenical Assoc. Inc . Non-profit 501(c)3