At Compassion Coalition and Bargain Grocery, our collaboration with JCTOD Outreach, Inc., known as Johnson Park Center (JPC), is a cornerstone of our efforts to nourish and support the community of Utica, NY. We have been giving truckloads of fresh fruits and vegetables, food products, and various home goods directly to JCTOD every week for their weekly food pantry which attracts thousands.
JCTOD Outreach, under the visionary leadership of Dr. Maria A. Scates and Rev. Ursula Meier, is a beacon of hope in the Cornhill neighborhood, the most economically challenged area in Utica. Their faith-based mission to promote positive change, revitalization, and community development is nothing short of inspirational. By offering emergency and supportive housing for women, children, and families, alongside a wide range of support services in nutrition, recreation, mentoring, and advocacy, JCTOD is making a tangible difference every day.
One of JCTOD’s hallmark initiatives is their comprehensive approach to housing, providing both emergency shelters and permanent supportive housing. These programs offer a supportive environment where individuals and families can overcome challenges, including substance abuse and mental health issues, to rebuild their lives and prepare for a brighter future. The inclusion of an on-site Family Specialist Program further exemplifies JCTOD’s commitment to strengthening families and preventing violence and neglect.
Equally impactful is JCTOD’s dedication to the youth of Utica through their Youth Drop-In Center and Feeding Program, which operates year-round. This program not only offers refuge and a nutritious meal to children and teens but also provides a variety of educational and recreational activities. The Youth Voice Initiative, in particular, empowers young people to become leaders and role models, advocating for a life free from tobacco, illegal drugs, alcohol, crime, and violence.
JCTOD’s Community Food Pantry is a testament to their resolve to combat food insecurity, offering accessible, nutritious food to low-income individuals and families without any referral or identification needed. This initiative is critical in ensuring that all members of our community have access to the resources they need to lead healthy lives.
At Compassion Coalition and Bargain Grocery, we are proud to collaborate with JCTOD Outreach, supplying essential food and home goods that support their mission. Our combined efforts reflect a shared commitment to not just meeting immediate needs but also to building a foundation for lasting change. The work of Dr. Maria A. Scates, Rev. Ursula Meier, and the entire JCTOD team is a shining example of what can be achieved when we come together to support our neighbors.
Our collaboration with JCTOD is a vital part of our mission to serve and uplift the community. Together, we are not just providing aid; we are nurturing hope, building resilience, and creating a stronger, more vibrant future for Utica. Thank you, JCTOD Outreach, for your dedication, your passion, and your unwavering belief in the power of community.
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