Those In Need Find Sanctuary In Freehold

The working poor, families and immigrant laborers in Freehold once again have an option for a hot meal and information during the cold winter months. The Sanctuary Program from the Latino Coalition provides a free breakfast and lunch each weekend from now until March. Now in it's eighth year it relies on advocacy groups, donations and volunteers from the community.

The Sanctuary Program will begin on Saturday December 10 serving breakfast and lunch at the United Methodist Church at 91 West Main Street in Freehold. The Saturday program will continue at the Methodist Church on December 17 and then move to the Reformed Church at 67 West Main Street on December 24 where it will be held every Saturday until March 17.

The program will also offer breakfast at the First United Methodist Church of Freehold beginning on Friday December 16 from 7:30 a.m. until 10 a.m. The final Friday for the program will be March 16.

According to Co-Chair Ann Bagchi, "there is great urgency this winter, as has been the case for several years, because of the dramatic economic downturn across the state and nation."

The program is a collaborative effort of the Latino Coalition of New Jersey working in conjunction with the First Presbyterian Church, New Beginnings Agape Christian Center, the First United Methodist Church, and the Reformed Church, all of Freehold.

In addition to blood pressure screenings, speakers are scheduled on most Saturdays to address a variety of issues in the community, including tax preparation, immigration, and HIV-AIDS.

Contributions for the program can be sent to the I Beseech Thee Community Development Corporation at 133 Throckmorton Street, Freehold, New Jersey 07728.

Volunteers will be needed to staff the program; particularly those with experience in meal preparation for large groups and those available from 11:00 to 1:00 to assist with clean-up. Those interested should contact Sandra Whitehill at 732-863-7395.