History
In the mid-1970s, the country was wracked by a painful economic recession. Faith community benevolence funds, food pantries and clothing closets were overwhelmed with requests for assistance. A group of local clergy responded in 1974 with a novel idea: pooling resources to more effectively meet the needs of low-income families in financial crisis in Mecklenburg County. In April 1975, Crisis Assistance Ministry officially opened in Dilworth United Methodist Church. Its one staff member was Caroline Love Myers, who remained the leader of the agency for 25 years, guiding its steady growth and serving as a strong advocate for people living in poverty in Mecklenburg County. In June 2000, Carol Hardison replaced Caroline as the agency's Executive Director. Since retiring in 2000, Caroline remains a weekly volunteer who continues to be passionately committed to those living in poverty.
Specialties
Crisis Assistance Ministry serves individuals and families in need by providing emergency rent assistance and utility assistance; financial counseling & support services; free clothing, shoes & household items; and furniture & appliances to meet urgent needs. Our ultimate goal is to help each customer reach financial stability.