Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
SYRACUSE - A unique child-oriented program that began last year as a volunteer effort hosted its official open house and ribbon-cutting ceremony Monday.
Lifeline Ministries, which meets at Wawasee Lakeside Chapel, also was recognized by the North Central Indiana Food Bank as an official Kids Cafe.
The program was started by Sara McKeefer and Judy Ellison last year in North Webster as a bread ministry to the elderly and to needy families.
During the home visits, the volunteers became aware of children who needed an after-school program "to help them acquire needed life skills, as well as a nutritious supper," McKeefer said.
Their first session of Lifeline began Feb. 29, 1996, at Freedom Chapel, and moved to Wawasee Lakeside Chapel in April.
More than 20 volunteers work with the kids on homework, balanced meals, Bible studies and crafts. They also arrange for speakers from the community to talk to the children.
The program has a limit of 50 children, and has slots available for approximately 10 kids. Many of the children in Lifeline are referred by school counselors.
A second program, Friends-in-Touch, is aimed at middle-school age girls, and meetings include supper, sharing time, Bible study, discussion of issues relevant to the girls, and a time of prayer.
More than 30 girls have attended Friends-in-Touch meetings.
Anyone interested in volunteering, helping or starting a similar program may call Sara McKeefer at 457-5978.
