The mended net is a safety net! The NET that WORKS proved to be especially beneficial with the onset of the COVID pandemic in 2020. Across the U.S., SCA chapters are serving their communities by collaborating with local churches to provide food and other necessities to those who were hit with economic hardships. In Houston, SCA was blessed with the opportunity to administer and distribute several relief grants, awarding assistance to local churches and ministries that are helping their communities.

One of the churches receiving a recent grant is Together We Stand, pastored by Allen Rice. Pastor Rice served as an advisory board member of Somebody Cares Houston.

“I am so blessed to have this wonderful Kingdom relationship and partnership with Dr. Doug Stringer and Somebody Cares,” he said.

One the families they served had a pipe burst in the attic during the winter storm, flooding their home and leaving them displaced. Insurance is covering only a small portion of the bill, bit the church was able to offer some relief with other expenses. “The assistance that we received today was a tremendous blessing,” the family said. “Every dollar currently has to be directed toward the house to try and get it repaired. Not having to worry about groceries or a light bill helps us to redirect the money for the restoration process. We are so grateful!”

Another individual came to the church needing food, but she also had a very large light bill. “My experience from beginning to end was phenomenal,” she said. “I told them that I would appreciate if they could just help me with some of my bill. About 15 minutes later, one of the staff members asked me if I was the lady with the $450 light bill. To my surprise, the lady said, ‘It’s paid!’ I couldn’t do anything but thank God and cry. I was also given $200 dollars in gift cards for food. I want to thank Him again and express my gratitude to you all again for helping me. It took a huge weight off my shoulders.”

“We also have homes on our property where we serve displaced families,” Pastor Rice explained. One of the families has nine children ages 16 and under. “Words cannot express how blessed they were to receive the help that this generous grant provided.”

The church also assisted several seniors in their community.

“For over 25 years now, Somebody Cares has been a vehicle that God has used to bless TWSCC,” Pastor Rice said. “This grant to help hurting and hungry people due to the COVID pandemic has allowed us to tangibly touch so many.”