b'outreachM I S S I O N A RY S O C I E T YC I RC L E S RVA Because of the pandemic, we have not been able to contemplateBy supporting CirclesRVA, a chapter of CirclesUSA, Grace & Holy returning to Belize. While Belize is gradually getting better numbersTrinity is addressing a need by partnering with families on the of those vaccinated, the schools are still closed. In December 2020,fence between surviving and thriving economically.CirclesRVA after devastating floods, we were able to send funds to a localempowers families to break the cycle of generational poverty and nonprofit that works in the area. But we continue to be in touchmove permanently towards economic stability. Seven families have with our partners in Belize. They have taught us many lessons,completed the eighteen-month program, and a number of gradu-particularly about resilience in the face of difficult times. ated Leaders have remained involved.Two serve on the CirclesRVA Board of Directors.Contact: Beth McClellandesmc1234@aol.comParticipants are called Circle Leaders, and they work with Volunteer Allies, members of the GHTC community who bring the connec-tions and experience of their lives to address immediate needs and act as teaching friends. Circle Leaders have reported increased income, decreased debt, and growth in support systems.Allies also report change.Their understanding of the complexities of poverty expand, and they sometimes gain a new-found interest in larger scale advocacy.Church members have served as Allies, meal providers, Board members and members of its Development Committee.We invite everyone to ask to receive our monthly newsletters and visit the CirclesRVA website.Contact: Glenn Mooregmoore@meyerbaldwin.comCO M M U N I T Y G R A N TS Four non-profit organizations received support from Grace and Holy Trinity in 2021; they are Circles RVA, A.C.T.S., Daily Planet, and Greater Richmond Childrens Choir. Circles RVA (see report) receives support from GHTC in three areas: financial ($10,000 grant), volunteers, and free use of our space.R E D D O O R M I N I S T RY A.C.T.S (Area Congregations Together in Service) provides funds,About thirty years ago, a group of women from this parish became support, and other resources to our neighbors in financial crisis, helpingconcerned about the number of people who gathered in Monroe them to live sustainable, self-sufficient and dignified lives. GHTCPark because they had nowhere else to go. Their determination refers guests at Red Door to ACTS.ACTS received a $5,000 grant.to do something led to the first Friday lunches of bean soup and cornbread. The menu has grown and changed over the years, a GHTC also refers Red Door guests to the Daily Planet. Daily Planetclothes closet set up like a boutique appeared, help with medica-Health Services mission is to provide accessible, comprehensive,tion was added, and a healing service offered. and integrated quality health services to anyone regardless of their housing, financial, citizenship, or insurance status. Daily PlanetThe congregations support for what is now the Red Door ministry received a $5,000 grant.has been fantastic, and donations of money, food, warm clothes, toiletries, new underwear; even sleeping bags, tents, and other useful, Greater Richmond Childrens Choir (GRCC) is dedicated toneeded things pour in. VCU students seeking service assignments and bringing together boysand girls from diverse backgrounds toparishioners with time to give participate. Perhaps most important, experience the joy of singing and to gain a life-long love for goodall are clearly welcome, and all is given with open hearts, kindness, music through age-appropriate vocal training. GRCC receives freedignity, and without judgment, seeking and serving Christ in every use of our space each week. person who knows the church with the red door.Submitted by The Rev. Duane Nettles Contact: Molly Howlemaryrhowle@gmail.comANNUAL REPORT | 9'