Nowata Church Seeing An Increase In People In Need

By Craig Day, The News On 6

NOWATA, OK -- With the economy down, there is a dramatic increase in the number of people in need.

While unemployment is at 7.2% in Tulsa County, it is even higher in some rural parts of our area, as high as 11% in some places.

Smaller towns often have fewer resources, making charity more of a challenge.

Just off highway 169 in Nowata, volunteers with Living Word Family Church are unloading a van full of food.

There are onions, potatoes and apples and other groceries that will make up the ingredients of hope for families in need.

"It just breaks your heart, you enjoy doing the Lord's work and doing this, but at the same time it breaks your heart. We would hope that we wouldn't have to do it but we're here if we need to," said Sandy Byrd, youth minister.

In the past year, the poor economy has tripled the need for the pantry's groceries. Unemployment in Nowata County is 9.4%, the sixth highest in the state.

The caring corner gives out free clothing, two days a month.

They are giving out hoodies and jackets, dress clothes, blouses boys and girls shoes. The church's clothing ministry is seeing the same increase in need.

"When you are down and out, to get a helping hand and no strings attached, people really appreciate it," Cindy Jauhola, Volunteer.

The last time they gave out clothes, they saw the largest turnout they have ever seen.

"There's just a real need in the small towns in this area," said Linda Travis, Volunteer

They say with the recession many have nowhere else to turn.

"Maybe they don't have the money to go out and buy extra clothes because it's had to go for heating, or electric, or whatever," Jauhola said.

While times are tough, volunteers say God will provide a way to keep the racks and the shelves full, giving them a chance to help with groceries or clothing.

"That's our reward, to hear them say thank you," Travis said.

"A lot of times, it lifts their spirits up to know that someone cares." Jauhola said.

The church's clothing ministry is open the first Friday/Saturday of each month.