Associated Ministries News

Up to $10,000 to be awarded to 4 Faith Communities to respond to family homelessness

Seattle University's School of Theology and Ministry is working with Associated Ministries to identify 4 faith communities in Pierce County to use their social and political will as a force for changing cultural and societal attitudes, behaviors and policies that surround the crisis of family homelessness. Selected applicants will receive financial resources and tailored support to increase their response to family homelessness while learning to effectively advocate for the public policy changes needed to reduce family homelessness in the region. STM will award up to $10,000 per faith community to pay for trainings and events designed to educate their membership about the causes of family homelessness and effective measures to address the issue.

Application materials can be accessed at http://faithandfamilyhomelessness.com/ Applications must be received no later than February 29, 2012.

Questions can be directed to Chris Morton, Executive Director at chrism@associatedministries.org or 253-426-1502.

Associated Ministries' First Annual Conference Feb. 26-27

w/ Keynote David Beckmann & Dialog Facilitator Jim Diers

World Food Prize laureate David Beckmann is one of the foremost U.S. advocates for hunger related issues. He is an economist, Lutheran minister and has been president of Bread for the World since 1991. He has written several books - the most recent is Exodus from Hunger: We are called to change the politics of hunger. Register now by calling Michele Cotton at: 253-383-3056 ext. 107 or complete and send the individual registration form. For groups, send the group registration form.

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2012 Free income tax preparation locations

The Pierce County Asset Building Coalition offers Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) sites and also works closely with AARP to help working and low-income individuals and families save money through free tax preparation help. 

PCABC volunteers assist in the preparation of simple federal tax forms and file the returns electronically to speed the receipt of refunds.

Free Tax Preparation Locations

Pierce County Youth Hunger Summit Saturday, Mar. 3rd

An ecumenical event for youth in grades 9 - 12.

Mason United Methodist Church, 2710 N. Madison Street, Tacoma 98407

42 people of faith in Pierce County create a Circle of Protection

Associated Ministries would like to thank the people of faith that braved the cold and rain and draw a circle of protection around programs that affect the most marginalized in our communities. 42 people in Tacoma joined the nationwide effort and over 150 religious leaders and people of faith signed a letter to Super-Committee Co-Chair, Senator Patty Murray. As the Super-Committee was unable to reach an agreement this week and budget cuts will be felt across the board for programs and service, people of faith continue to have an obligation to help the most vulnerable be heard. We know from our experience in serving hungry and homeless people that these programs meet basic human needs, protect lives, and the dignity of the most vulnerable.