This truly is the most wonderful time of the year for our Ventura County ministries. I am reminded of God’s love which is always a giving love. “For God so loved the world that He gave.” This truth permeates everything that we do at the Ventura County Rescue Mission and Lighthouse for Women and Children. It is our desire to give refuge, recovery, and restoration through the love, hope, peace, and joy only found in Jesus Christ.

Christmas, in light of Covid-19, provides an opportunity for us to give to others differently than we have in years past. We are not able to hold any large gatherings with our Christmas Toy Giveaway event, but we can still give to those in need and share the love of Jesus. We will be gathering toys and gifts for our program clients, their children and/or grandchildren, as well as those in need in our community. The difference will primarily be in the way in which we distribute these toys. We will partner with our local churches to bring God’s blessings to others.

Much like Thanksgiving, we will also provide meals to those in need. Again, because of certain restrictions, we will be working with local churches and community partners, just as with the toys to get the blessing of a meal to those in need.

I am truly excited about the ways in which Covid-19 is causing us to think differently about how we do what we are called to do here in Ventura County. Even in the midst of a pandemic, God is going to do great things in the lives of so many. Thank you for your generous support during what is truly the most wonderful time of the year.

Blessings,
Clayton Coates, Director