April 2006

Members support Christian Aid Center

The Christian Aid Center in Lithia Springs provides an essential lifeline of food, financial and spiritual support to local families facing hardships – and in 2006 Operation Round Up, a not-for-profit foundation supported by GreyStone members, donated $5,000 to the center. Operation Round Up Board Member Anne Shipp reviewed the center’s application.

“I was familiar with their work with children, and I like the center because there are no paid personnel -- it’s run by volunteers,” says Anne, a retired teacher who taught in Lithia Springs for 36 years. “All the money goes directly to needy families.”

The center provides food, prescriptions and pays some bills for Lithia Springs residents in hardship. In 2005 the organization helped 5,262 people; at Thanksgiving 28 families received meals and more than 100 children were given gifts for Christmas. Each month an average of 100 families ask for help, and 1,500 to 2,000 pounds of food are distributed weekly.

“It’s rewarding to know you’re helping families in need,” says Anne. “It was heartbreaking to see children go through hardships. I had a wise principal that said, ‘You can’t teach a hungry child.’ And that’s the truth. The center helps by taking some of the financial pressure off a family that’s going through a difficult time.”

Fifty volunteers work in the center on Houston Street in Lithia Springs, ‘shopping’ in the food pantry for families. Volunteer and Treasurer Charlie Goff enjoys the center’s open and friendly atmosphere.

“I was asked to help out and the Lord led me to serve,” says Charlie. “It’s a joy being with the other volunteers, knowing we’re helping those in need.”

“We have so many people that are unemployed and struggling financially,” says Coordinator Pam Cline. “Food is a necessity, especially for children. You can live without some things, but not without food. When you’re able to help someone and see his or her face light up – it’s amazing.”

The center, founded in 1982, is supported by nine churches: Cornerstone Baptist, Lithia Springs Assembly of God, Lithia Springs United Methodist, Beulah Baptist, Union Grove Baptist, Atlanta West Pentecostal, County Line Baptist, Lithia Springs First Baptist and Pleasant Hill Baptist. Civic groups and individuals also support the center with food drives and donations.

Applicants must apply in person and reside in Lithia Springs to receive help from the center. To learn how to get help or to make a donation call (770) 948-0066.