6th Annual Beef, Bonfires & Cigars Event

6th Annual Beef, Bonfires & Cigars Event

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE (STEVENSVILLE, MD – OCTOBER 6, 2023)

CONTACT: Peter Grim, 410-827-7194

Haven Ministries Announces Sixth Annual Beef, Bonfires & Cigars Event

On Saturday, November 4 from 5 p.m. until, Haven Ministries will host its sixth annual Beef, Bonfires & Cigar event at the newly renovated Historic Kent Manor Resort at 500 Kent Manor Drive in Stevensville. The event is to bring awareness to Homelessness & Hunger Awareness Week in November, a nationwide week of action where people draw attention to poverty – including hunger and homelessness.

According to the National Coalition for the Homeless, many Americans are living on the edge, forced to choose between necessities like purchasing food, paying rent, or going to the doctor. Today, 37.2 million Americans live below the poverty level, including one in six children.

“We are so excited to bring back this event after the pandemic as it has always been so well received by the community and many have asked us to offer it again. We hope it will raise $75,000 in funds for Haven Ministries programs including shelter, clothing, food, and resources,” states Peter Grim, Executive Director of Haven Ministries. 

“Due to rising costs of everything today, we are seeing increasing demand from our clientele. Particularly for food and shelter. This event will continue to enable Haven Ministries to continue to help those in need residing in Queen Anne’s County.”

The event includes a cocktail hour, silent auction and raffles, dinner and live grilling, outdoor fires, hand-rolled cigars, and music.

“We are always looking for volunteers to help Haven Ministries with this event, including lining up sponsors, getting auction items, and decorating for the event. Attending the event is a great way to have an enjoyable evening while helping those in need. Plus, the silent auction offers a chance to knock out some of your Christmas shopping,” adds Yvonne Purpora, Event Coordinator for Beef, Bonfires & Cigars.

The cost is $125 per person through October 27. PNC Bank is the event’s Host Sponsor. Questions about the event, sponsorships, providing auction items, or volunteering can be directed to Yvonne Purpora at [email protected] or by calling 410-827-7194.

If one can’t make it to this event, donations to Haven Ministries are always welcome. The fall season kicks off the time of greatest need for under-resourced individuals. For further information or to donate, visit www.haven-ministries.org.

Love shapes the ministry, love transforms people, and hope prevails at Haven Ministries.  Haven Ministries operates a seasonal Homeless Shelter, a Resource Center, and a Food Pantry in Queenstown, Our Daily Thread Store in Chester, Hope Warehouse in Queenstown, and a Food Pantry Truck in Sudlersville.

Haven Ministries Appoints Ed Wilson to Board of Directors

Haven Ministries Appoints Ed Wilson to Board of Directors

Haven Ministries Appoints Ed Wilson to Board of Directors

Ed Wilson of Chester has recently been appointed to the Board of Directors of Haven Ministries and will serve as the organization’s treasurer replacing Dottie Wilson who has served as treasurer of the Board for almost 6 years.

Wilson, a retired financial executive, has over 35 years of extensive accounting, finance, and banking experience.  Most recently, he worked as part-time Executive Director of Finance for Lighthouse Church, a “Mega Church” in Glen Burnie Maryland. Before that, he was Senior Vice President of the Shelter Group/Brightview Senior Living, a property management and senior housing company. He completed a Bachelor of Arts in Economics with a Certificate in Accounting from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County.

Peter Grim, Executive Director of Haven Ministries, comments, “I’d like to thank Dottie Wilson for her years of dedication to the Haven Ministries Board of Directors serving as our Treasurer. She has been instrumental in the growth of this excellent organization serving under-resourced individuals in Queen Anne’s County. I am pleased to announce that Ed Wilson has joined the board and has been elected as our new corporate Treasurer. Ed brings with him a wealth of experience and has a firm grasp of the financial aspects of non-profit organizations such as Haven Ministries.”

Ed Wilson moved to the Eastern Shore a year ago and was introduced after his wife began volunteering at Haven Ministries Food Pantry.  When he learned more about the organization, it reminded him of the position that Lighthouse Church was in 10 years ago – poised for major growth.

“Haven Ministries has a real vision for the future. They need someone with a background in accounting and high-end finance to help them continue to reach their goals,” he adds.

“Having been founded over 20 years ago, Haven Ministries has experienced significant growth due to increased need in recent years and our financial systems need to keep in pace with such growth. Ed will be working with me to enhance our systems to best meet the needs of those we serve. I am excited to work with Ed to bring Haven Ministries to the next level of service to help our neighbors in need in Queen Anne’s County,” Grim states.

In reflecting on his retirement years, Wilson comments, “I think as a retired person, now is the time to give back. This volunteer work is fun and I’m doing something meaningful and helping people. It gives me purpose. Everybody has different gifts. I happen to love numbers. Peter has got a vision and I would like to help them to get the organizational structure in place to get to the next level.”

For further information about supporting Haven Ministries, visit haven-ministries.org.

Love shapes the ministry, love transforms people, and hope prevails at Haven Ministries.  Haven Ministries operates a seasonal Homeless Shelter, a Resource Center, and Food Pantry in Queenstown, Our Daily Thread Store in Chester, Hope Warehouse in Queenstown, and a Food Pantry Truck in Sudlersville.

Caption: Pictured is Ed Wilson of Chester has recently been appointed to the Board of Directors of Haven Ministries and will serve as the organization’s new treasurer.

Haven Ministries Receives Donation from Food Lion Feeds Charitable Foundation

Haven Ministries Receives Donation from Food Lion Feeds Charitable Foundation

Haven Ministries Receives Donation from Food Lion Feeds Charitable Foundation

Chester, MD – Haven Ministries has received $2,700 from the Food Lion Feeds Charitable Foundation to help feed neighbors in their time of need. Haven Ministries will use the gift to purchase food for its food pantries located in both Queenstown and Sudlersville. 

“We are greatly appreciative of this gift from the Food Lion Feeds Charitable Foundation. Their dedication to the elimination of hunger through such gifts is a very admirable endeavor,” said Peter Grim, Executive Director of Haven Ministries.  

As Haven Ministries is dedicated to providing food, clothing, shelter and resources to under-resourced individuals in Queen Anne’s County, this gift will enhance the organization’s ability to stock its food pantries at a time when demand is quite high. 

The Food Lion Feeds Charitable Foundation is committed to supporting families facing food insecurity across its 10-state footprint. Established in 2001, the foundation provides financial support for programs and organizations dedicated to feeding local neighbors in the communities it serves. Since its inception, the foundation has awarded more than $17.8 million in grants.

About The Food Lion Feeds Charitable Foundation 

The Food Lion Feeds Charitable Foundation is the philanthropic arm of Food Lion, based in Salisbury, N.C. Established in 2001, the Food Lion Feeds Charitable Foundation provides financial support for programs and organizations dedicated to eliminating hunger. The charitable foundation has provided more than $17.8 million in grant funding, helping to nourish communities with fresh food for backpack programs, Kids Café’s, and other hunger-relief programs as well as funding for long-term programs to help shorten the lines at food banks. The charitable foundation partners with Feeding America, the nation’s largest hunger-relief agency, in addition to local food agencies serving the 10 Southeastern and Mid-Atlantic states in which Food Lion operates. For more information, visit www.foodlion.com/in-our-community.

About Food Lion
Food Lion is an omnichannel retailer committed to nourishing its neighbors during the moments that matter most. More than 82,000 associates across 1,100+ stores deliver an easy, fresh and affordable shopping experience throughout 10 Southeastern and Mid-Atlantic states. Through its ‘Count on me’ culture, Food Lion fosters a sense of belonging for all associates, promoting a diverse and inclusive environment that has supported LGBTQ+ equality for nearly two decades. Food Lion is the only company in the country to be named an ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year for 22 consecutive years. It also pioneered a food rescue program to support food-insecure neighbors. Through Food Lion Feeds, the retailer has donated more than 1 billion meals to individuals and families since 2014 and has committed to donate 1.5 billion meals by 2025. Founded and based in Salisbury, N.C., since 1957, Food Lion is a company of Ahold Delhaize USA, the U.S. division of Zaandam-based Ahold Delhaize. For more information, visit foodlion.com.

Haven Ministries’ Hope Warehouse Sponsors Art Auction

Haven Ministries’ Hope Warehouse Sponsors Art Auction

Haven Ministries’ Hope Warehouse Sponsors Art Auction

Haven Ministries’ Hope Warehouse is having an Art Auction benefiting Haven Ministries on Friday, April 28, 2023 at Cascia Vineyard at 1200 Thompson Creek Road in Stevensville starting at 6 p.m.   Hope Warehouse offers used appliances, furniture, artwork, and building supplies for purchase in Queenstown. The sale of items at a reduced cost to the public support Haven Ministries’ other ministries in the community, including its homeless shelter, food pantry, street outreach, and resource center. The Art Auction, which will feature live and silent auctions featuring art donated by the community and local artists, will also offer lite fare and libations for guests. 

Hope Warehouse often receives donations of all types of quality artwork and crafted pieces to sell to the public.  Occasionally, they receive original pieces of artwork which are more valuable.

According to Joni Melotti, Hope Warehouse Manager, and Lorraine Sincavage, Lead Volunteer, who are organizing the event, “It occurred to us that an art auction might be a great way to offer a fun experience while raising money to support Haven Ministries’ many outreach programs that help citizens in our community.  It also brings more attention to the presence of Hope Warehouse and Our Daily Thread and the quality donations we receive through both.”

“Additionally, we hope that we will gain more visibility as a charity to which members of our community can donate while also shining a light on our dedicated sponsors.  The donations of artwork from local artists for the auction also showcase the local talent we have in the area which helps the artists as well.   We are so appreciative of the generosity of our community and hope this event will expand our revenue and bring more visibility to the work of Haven Ministries in our community.”

Sponsors of the event to date include Cascia Vineyard, Kent Island Federation of Arts, and Queen Anne County Art Development. The following are sponsors who provide continued support of Haven Ministries: PNC Bank, Miltec Construction Services and Supplies, Inc., The Narrows, Judy Center Early Learning Hub, Marriage Miracles, Waterman Realty Company, Homeland Tile and Escrow, The Shore Update, Social Point Media and Marketing, What’s Up Media, Increte, and the Jacob Sloan Foundation.

Tickets for the Art Auction cost $30 in advance , $35 at the door and include a glass of wine at the event. Tickets can be purchased at Hope Warehouse, Our Daily Thread Thrift Store or online.

Love shapes the ministry, love transforms people, and hope prevails at Haven Ministries.  Haven Ministries operates a seasonal Homeless Shelter, a Resource Center, and Food Pantry in Queenstown, Our Daily Thread Store in Chester, Hope Warehouse in Queenstown, and a Food Pantry Truck in Sudlersville.

Pictured left to right are Barbara Regalia, Lorraine Sincavage, Lead volunteer, and Joni Melotti, Warehouse Manager,  holding a sampling of the artwork to be featured at Haven Ministries’ Hope Warehouse Art Auction on April 28

 

Jack Gottschalk Appointed Haven Ministries Board of Directors President

Jack Gottschalk Appointed Haven Ministries Board of Directors President

Jack Gottschalk Appointed Haven Ministries Board of Directors President

Jack Gottschalk of Wye Mills has been appointed President of the Haven Ministries Board of Directors. Gottschalk served as a business consultant and has also held several executive-level positions in Fortune 500 corporations that included plastics, rubber, military products, electronics, railroad, education, food, and health care. He worked with the Hershey Foods Corporation and retired from Children’s National Medical Center as Vice President of Human Resources. He holds a Ph.D. in Organization Behavior and a master’s degree in Human Resources. He has served on the Haven Ministries Board of Directors for three years.

“While serving on the Board of Directors, I quickly discovered how sincerely and completely committed our leadership, staff, volunteers, and member churches are to fulfilling God’s work by helping others. It is so very rewarding for our entire team to know we are directly making a difference in the lives of others,” Gottschalk comments.

Gottschalk is working with Haven Ministries Executive Director to improve efficiencies in its programs to meet the growing needs for assisting men, women, and children in Queen Anne’s County caught in the cycle of poverty.

“Peter and I would like to continue the great work and tradition of our founder Krista Pettit and we will look for growth opportunities that will enhance the services that Haven Ministries provides to our community,” Gottschalk adds.

“We are thrilled to have Jack as our Board President. He brings tremendous experience from a wide range of business environments and can lead us to creative solutions as we continue to grow our organization,” states Peter Grim, Executive Director of Haven Ministries.

Pictured is Jack Gottschalk of Wye Mills, the new Board President of Haven Ministries.

Love shapes the ministry, love transforms people, and hope prevails at Haven Ministries.  Haven Ministries operates a seasonal Homeless Shelter, a Resource Center, and Food Pantry in Queenstown, Our Daily Thread Store in Chester, Hope Warehouse in Queenstown, and a Food Pantry Truck in Sudlersville.

 

Haven Ministries Recognizes National Homelessness and Hunger Awareness Month

Haven Ministries is recognizing National Homelessness and Hunger Awareness Month

As we enter the season of giving, Haven Ministries recognizes November as National Homeslessness and Hunger Month and is asking the public to support its efforts in sheltering and feeding Queen Anne’s County residents in need by participating in the year-end giving program.

Through its new Homes of Hope in Stevensville, which opened in June, Haven Ministries is providing clients with affordable housing while leading them to a permanent housing solution. While participating in the Haven Ministries Housing Assistance Program, participants work closely with a Haven Ministries case manager to ensure that they are positioned for success to secure safe and stable long-term housing once their respective program period is over, usually within two years.

“To date, both homes are filled and staff is working with clients toward long-term housing solutions. We are thrilled with being able to implement our Housing Assistance Program. The need for affordable housing on the Mid-Shore has never been greater and we rely upon our donors to help us bridge the gap,” comments Peter Grim, Executive Director of Haven Ministries.

Individuals and families who live in Queen Anne’s County can apply for the program, must pass the background checks, pay a program fee, and voluntarily agree to work with a case manager. Haven Ministries will connect participants to area resources such as education, jobs, and job training, allowing individuals and families to stabilize, build up their resources, and successfully move on toward safe and affordable housing.

In addition to Homes of Hope, Haven Ministries is continuing to operate its seasonal shelter at Kent Island Methodist Church in Stevensville to offer emergency overnight safe and warm accommodations for individuals and families who do not have a dedicated location in which to sleep. The shelter operates from October through April each year.

In addition to shelter needs, Haven Ministries is seeing a growing need for food pantry items at its Food Pantry/Resource Center location at 206 Del Rhodes Avenue in Queenstown. Haven Ministries also operates a Mobile Food Pantry Truck where residents in northern Queen Anne’s County can go and “shop” for needed food items. The “store on wheels” is parked at Faith Bible Church at 407 Dudley Corner Road in Sudlersville every week on Tuesdays and Fridays from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., offering a selection of non-cooked food items for area residents.  Haven Ministries partners with The Judy Center/Queen Anne’s County Public Schools to supply food to this part of the county.

“The demand for food items at both these locations has increased by 40 percent since the pandemic began. We are now serving an average of 500 people per month through our food pantry program. The need is great and we rely upon the public’s support to keep up with this growing demand,” adds Grim.

Financial donations between now and December 2, 2023, will be matched up to $15,000.  To support the Housing Assistance and Food Pantry Programs, call 410-827-7194 or make an online donation before December 2, 2022, making your dollars go even further.

DONATE HERE 

Love shapes the ministry, love transforms people, and hope prevails at Haven Ministries.  Haven Ministries operates a seasonal Homeless Shelter, a Resource Center, and Food Pantry in Queenstown, Our Daily Thread Thrift Store in Chester, Hope Warehouse in Queenstown, and a Food Pantry Truck in Sudlersville.

 

Left: Pictured are Melanie and Cameron Lednum who are residents in one of the Haven Ministries’ Homes of Hope

Right:Pictured is Tina Trice in Haven Ministries’ Queenstown Food Pantry

Peter Grim Appointed New Executive Director of Haven Ministries

Peter Grim Appointed New Executive Director of Haven Ministries

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE (STEVENSVILLE, MD – JULY 18, 2022)

CONTACT: Peter Grim, 410-827-7194

Peter Grim of Rock Hall, a non-profit executive, has been appointed the new Executive Director of Haven Ministries. Grim replaces Krista Pettit, who founded the organization 20 years ago in Queen Anne’s County to address the need for a homeless shelter there.

At a recent celebration of Pettit’s achievements, Caroline Aland, Past Board President of Haven Ministries recalled, “Krista was sitting in church and got a calling from God. He told her there was a need in her community. There are people without housing who are struggling to survive. He asked her to do something. To start a shelter.”

Krista created the Queen Anne County Christian Assistance program and pretty soon they had a place to shelter people. The first year the shelter was in the Grasonville Community Center. After the first year, the shelter moved to the Kent Island United Methodist Church where it has remained operating as a seasonal shelter.

“But that’s not all… she then organized the Food Pantry, a Resource Center, transitional housing, a Food Pantry Truck in Sudlersville, Our Daily Thread Thrift Store, and Hope Warehouse providing sustainable income for Haven Ministries’ programs and goods for its clients. And now we have the Homes for Hope housing program,” added Aland.

Aland pointed out that all of these projects were opened with tremendous prayer and thought. The organization started with a handful of volunteers and has grown to 14 paid staff, hundreds of volunteers, and has helped thousands of residents over the years.

Grim, who follows Pettit, has had several years of experience in executive leadership, development, and operational oversight of non-profit organizations. Most recently he facilitated a start-up and served as Executive Director of The Common Place in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, a non-profit organization providing education, social service collaboration, and faith formation to serve resource-challenged children and families. Before that, he managed retirement communities in Pennsylvania and New Jersey.

“Peter’s non-profit experience includes faith-based multiple startups, strategic planning, community-based programs that include nutrition education, food pantry operations, after-school programming, technical education, summer camps, fundraising, and construction. He has held general management positions that cover all the critical skill sets needed for success as Executive Director, including community relations, communications, and group leadership,” states Jack Gottschalk, Haven Ministries Board President.

“One of his endearing qualities is that when you meet him you can see straight through to his heart. He is a caring and devoted Christian who like our founder ‘walks the talk.’ What you see is what you get – an honest, personable, and capable executive with a broad skill set that is already making a difference to Haven Ministries.”

Grim brings an entrepreneurial-driven approach to non-profit management to ensure fiscal stability and growth. His father started a retirement community the year he was born, and Grim grew up working at all levels of the operation.

“Throughout my childhood to adulthood, I gained valuable experience with increasing levels of responsibility working in housekeeping, maintenance, kitchen, bookkeeping, nursing home administration, and overall management culminating in a board position, ownership, and eventual sale of the organization. This vast experience carried over to bring much success in future business endeavors,” he reflects.

Grim holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Miami and an M.B.A. in Health Care Administration from St. Joseph’s University.

“One of the first things I hope to do is to bring additional stability to the organization in terms of structure and processes. The organization grew quickly and is doing lots of amazing things in the community. I want to look at creating efficiencies in our programs to be even more effective. That is something I’ve done in my past, so that was another thing that drew me to this job with Haven Ministries,” Grim explained.

“As a Christian, I believe that you need to help others while also helping them learn how to help themselves. That will be a principle I follow in working with the community we serve.”

For further information about supporting Haven Ministries, visit haven-ministries.org or call Peter Grim at 410-827-7194.

Love shapes the ministry, love transforms people, and hope prevails at Haven Ministries.  Haven Ministries operates a seasonal Homeless Shelter, a Resource Center, and Food Pantry in Queenstown, Our Daily Thread Store in Chester, Hope Warehouse in Queenstown, and a Food Pantry Truck in Sudlersville.

Caption: Pictured is Peter Grim, new executive director of Haven Ministries.

Peter Grim, Executive Director Haven Ministries

Haven Ministries Opens Homes of Hope in Stevensville

Haven Ministries Opens Homes of Hope in Stevensville

Haven Ministries Opens Homes of Hope in Stevensville

Haven Ministries is addressing the urgent need for affordable housing in Queen Anne’s County this spring with the opening of two new single-family homes located in Stevensville.  What has been 20 years in the making, the “Homes of Hope” will provide real hope to those participating in Haven Ministries Housing Assistance Program.

Built in the middle of the pandemic, these two 1700-square-foot single-family homes were completed because of generous donations from local businesses of materials and services totaling over $150,000.

“Even though we were living in uncertain times, people in our community stepped up to donate so that someone less fortunate could have shelter – one of our basic human needs. People like Jim Moran, owner of Increte of Maryland, Inc. and Brad Lundberg, President of Lundberg Builders and 314 Design Studio, helped to coordinate the supplier donations on the project. We wouldn’t be where we are today without the giving these two men solicited,” comments Krista Pettit, Executive Director of Haven Ministries.

Jim Moran, also a project donor and a Queen Anne’s County Commissioner At-Large, states, “This project has been a long time coming. I got involved eight years ago and have been donating ever since. These homes have been funded through donations, a $150,000 grant from Queen Anne’s County, as well as state funding. Haven Ministries does a tremendous job and has built this organization from nothing into a model program.”

Moran was raised in Bowie, Maryland and his parents instilled in him charity as a child. His military experience overseas also exposed him to those less fortunate and has been a motivator for his philanthropy as well.

“I learned early through my faith about charity. The quote, ‘The measure of a community is how they care for the least of the community,’ has always resonated with me. I have been blessed to have a successful company and a loving family. We can always do more.”

Through the Homes of Hope, Haven Ministries will be able to provide clients with affordable housing while leading them to a permanent housing solution. While participating in the Housing Assistance Program, participants will work closely with a Haven Ministries case manager to ensure that they are positioned for success to secure safe and stable long-term housing once their respective program period is over, usually within two years.

Individuals and families who live in Queen Anne’s County can apply for the program, must pass the background checks, pay a program fee, and voluntarily agree to work with a case manager. Haven Ministries will connect participants to area resources such as education, jobs, and job training, allowing individuals and families to stabilize, build up their resources, and successfully move on toward safe and affordable housing.

Housing instability can include trouble paying rent or a mortgage, moving frequently due to the lack of affordable housing, or spending a majority of household income on housing. The construction for Homes of Hope and the Housing Assistance Program are being funded by private donations and grants, including those from foundations made directly to Haven Ministries, and through major fundraising activities. A program fee will also be collected from the Housing Assistance Program clients approved for the program.

Haven Ministries will continue to operate its seasonal shelter at Kent Island Methodist Church in Stevensville to offer emergency overnight safe and warm accommodations for individuals and families that do not have a dedicated location in which to sleep. Although both of these programs are important programs, they each serve a different population of community members with different needs.

Moran concludes, “I used my contacts in the industry to help fund this project. No one said ‘no’ when they were asked to contribute. Each of the following sponsors sees the value of helping others.”

“This project has been a community project from the start. Several things have been donated from the initial demolition to Delmarva Power donating their labor for electricity hook-up to the local plumbers and electricians donating their labor and materials – the generosity has been overwhelming,” adds Lundberg.

Sponsors for Haven Ministries Homes of Hope were 314 Design Studio, ABC Supply Co Inc., A Plus Sanitation, Absolute Fire Protection, Inc., Annapolis Exteriors, . Bill Thomas, C2 Foam, Capital Electric, Chesapeake Environmental Labs, Inc., Choice Stairways, Matt Cole with Cole Ventures, Delmarva Power, Dress Your Windows, Economy Pest Control, Inc., ED Supply, Ernest Maier Companies, Ferguson, F.A. Hobson Landscaping, Inc., Friel Lumber, Increte of Maryland, Inc., Island Floors, Jack Wilson, Jr. Electrical Services, JTW Building Services LLC, KI True Value, Lane Engineering, Lifetime Well Drilling, Lindy J Jones Plumbing and Heating Contractors, Lowes, Lundberg Builders, O’Berry Engineering, Inc., Palmer’s Plumbing, Patuxent Materials, Patuxent Roll-Off, R.B. Bakers, R and D Electric, Puckett’s Heating and  Air Conditioning, Rental Works, Torchio Architects, Universal Supply Co., W Scot Jones Mechanical Contractor, and White’s Custom Concepts.

Special thanks goes to the following organizations who contributed funding: Queen Anne’s County Commissioners, Weinberg Foundation, Salmon Foundation, Bank of America Foundation, May Foundation, Trust Foundation of Maryland, Legislative Bond Grant, Keller Giving, Queen Anne’s County Mental Health Grant, Mid-Shore Community Foundation, and many individual donors.

For further information about donating to this important project, visit haven-ministries.org. For information about applications for the Homes of Hope, call 410-739-7859.

Love shapes the ministry, love transforms people, and hope prevails at Haven Ministries.  Haven Ministries operates a seasonal Homeless Shelter, a Resource Center and Food Pantry in Queenstown, Our Daily Thread Thrift Store in Chester, Hope Warehouse in Queenstown, and a Food Pantry Truck in Sudlersville.


Representatives of the area business who donated materials and services to building Homes of Hope in Queen Anne’s County include left to right Brad Lundberg with Lundberg Builders and 314 Design Studio; Krista Pettit, Executive Director of Haven Ministries; Jack Wilson with Absolute Fire Protection, JTW Building Services LLC, C2 Foam Insulation, and a Queen Anne’s County Commissioner; and Jim Moran with Increte of Maryland, Inc. and a Queen Anne’s County Commissioner.


 

Peter Grim has been appointed by the Board of Directors as the incoming Executive Director of Haven Ministries! 

Peter Grim has been appointed by the Board of Directors as the incoming Executive Director of Haven Ministries! 

Please help us welcome Peter Grim. Peter has recently relocated to the Eastern Shore from Philadelphia and brings a wealth of experience and knowledge of both the nonprofit and for-profit realms. Krista Pettit, outgoing director will continue to work with Peter over the next four months to ensure the transition is done with excellence.

Welcome to the Haven Ministries Team, Peter!  

Haven Ministries Volunteers Extend Reach in the Community

Haven Ministries Volunteers Extend Reach in the Community

Haven Ministries Volunteers Extend Reach in the Community

For two decades, Haven Ministries has been transforming the lives of those in need through shelter, clothing, food, and support in Queen Anne’s County. The backbone of these services has been the many volunteers who work behind the scenes in a variety of capacities to be sure those in need have the resources they need. This month, the organization is doing a campaign, “We Love Our Volunteers,” to thank its volunteers and encourage more people to volunteer for the organization.

“Our volunteer pool has always been at the core of the services we provide. We couldn’t do it without them,” comments Krista Pettit, Executive Director of Haven Ministries.

“These are truly remarkable people who have dedication and compassion for those we serve. They are making a difference in the lives of their neighbors by volunteering their time to help people get back on their feet.”

Haven Ministries utilizes volunteers in a variety of ways through its homeless shelter, resource center, food pantries, and at Our Daily Thread and Hope Warehouse retail locations. At Haven Ministries Headquarters/Resource Center in Queenstown on Del Rhodes Avenue and at Hope Warehouse on Friels Road, volunteers are used in a variety of ways. Right now, Hope Warehouse has the greatest need for volunteers to pick up donations from community members one day a week and help lift furniture and appliances into vehicles when items are purchased at the Warehouse.

“Each volunteer has his/her strengths and contributes in unique ways to make the shopping experience at Hope Warehouse enjoyable for both new and returning customers. Volunteers help customers, arrange furniture and displays, clean, and serve as cashiers. We need able-bodied people who can work a three-hour morning or afternoon shift Wednesday through Saturday,” states Joni Melotti, Hope Warehouse Manager.

In the Resource Center, volunteers answer the phone and schedule clients for both food pantries in Queenstown and Sudlersville. They also help gather information for client requests for assistance. Volunteers who have office skills and enjoy working with people are encouraged to apply. Volunteers also help with Haven Ministries seasonal shelter.

“We have the best volunteers. They are willing to do what is needed and are such pleasant and caring individuals,” comments Mary Jeeters, case manager for Haven Ministries’ Resource Center.

Haven Ministries’ food pantries and thrift shop have the greatest number of volunteers, using volunteers in shifts to keep their operations running. At the Haven Ministries Food Pantries, nearly 40 volunteers work Monday through Friday at the Resource Center Pantry in Queenstown or the Food Pantry Truck in Sudlersville, providing a friendly face to clients. Volunteers move food from storage locations, stock the pantries and clean pantry sites, while also assisting clients with finding the items they need.

“Our volunteers enjoy interacting with clients. It’s meaningful for them. Clients enjoy the engagement just as much as the volunteers do,” states Christine Perkins, Food Pantry Director.

“Clients are relaxed at our pantries as they can leisurely shop for the items they need among dry goods, canned goods, frozen foods and toiletries. This time of year, we also offer them hats, gloves and scarves.”

An equal number of volunteers keep Haven Ministries’ Our Daily Thread store operations going. The store’s new location in Chester has attracted a number of new volunteers and its volume of donations is increasing every day. Volunteers help by sorting and pricing clothing during two shifts Monday through Saturday.

“The new location offers such a pleasant work environment for our volunteers, who really are the backbone of what we do in serving the public. We are always looking for people to join our team,” states Liz Bazzell, Our Daily Thread Manager.

All of the volunteer opportunities at Haven Ministries allow flexible scheduling. To volunteer, call Haven Ministries staff at the following numbers and locations:

Haven Ministry Food Pantries – Headquarters – 206 Del Rhodes Avenue in Queenstown & Food Pantry Truck – 407 Dudley Corner Road in Sudlersville – Christine Perkins, Food Pantry Director at 443-988-1183

Resource Center & Seasonal Shelter – 206 Del Rhodes Avenue in Queenstown – Mary Jeeters, Case Manager at 410-827-7194

Our Daily Thread Store – 1521 Postal Road in Chester – Liz Bazzell, Manager at 410-353-0455

Hope Warehouse – 6527 Friel’s Road in Queenstown – Joni Melotti, Warehouse Manager at 410-490-8498

For further information about supporting Haven Ministries, visit haven-ministries.org or call Krista Pettit at 410-739-4363.

Love shapes the ministry, love transforms people, and hope prevails at Haven Ministries.  Haven Ministries operates a seasonal Homeless Shelter, a Resource Center and Food Pantry in Queenstown, Our Daily Thread Store in Chester, Hope Warehouse in Queenstown, and a Food Pantry Truck in Sudlersville.

Pictured left is Haven Ministries volunteer Rob McCauley carrying furniture for a customer at Hope Warehouse in Queenstown. This month, the organization is doing a campaign, “We Love Our Volunteers,” to thank its volunteers and encourage more people to volunteer for the organization.

Our Daily Thread Thrift Store Moves to New Location in Chester

Haven Ministries Our Daily Thread Thrift Store in Stevensville has moved to a new location at 1521 Postal Road in Chester, next to Rainbow Plaza. The purchases from the Thrift Store benefit the agency’s outreach programs in Queen Anne’s County, including its housing assistance program, resource center, food pantries, street outreach, and seasonal shelter. The new retail space is three times the size of the previous location in Stevensville, accommodating the store’s growth over its eight-year history.

“The new space is very elegant and has enabled us to double our sales floor. The new décor showcases our fine merchandise in a more upscale retail environment. Although the space allows us to better display our nicer quality items, prices are still affordable. The response has been tremendous,” comments Liz Bazzell, Store Manager for Our Daily Thread Thrift Store.

The store provides quality name-brand clothing and household goods at deeply discounted prices. Clothing includes men’s casual clothes and women’s clothes and accessories, such as costume jewelry, shoes, handbags, scarves, and hats. The store also offers household kitchen items like small appliances, flatware, dishes, pots and pans, as well as collectibles, and toys, puzzles and a small quantity of books.

“We have a loyal customer base. Many of our customers helped us unpack our boxes, move furniture to the new space and install fixtures. We are very grateful for our friends and volunteers,” Bazzell adds.

“The Queen Anne’s County community continues to be so encouraging of Haven Ministries.  DiDonato Property Management LLC and Mallard Construction Group, Inc. have been tremendous in finishing off the space for our use and supporting us in our opening. We are grateful for their commitment to our mission,” states Krista Pettit, Executive Director, Haven Ministries.

Donations to Our Daily Thread Thrift Store can be made Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and should be made in medium size boxes or 13-gallon trash bags to prevent injuries to Haven Ministries volunteers at the store. People wishing to donate should call Liz Bazzell ahead at 410-353-0455 to make arrangements.

Our Daily Thread Thrift Store is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and is complying with COVID-19 guidelines to provide a safe shopping experience for customers.

Love shapes the ministry, love transforms people, and hope prevails at Haven Ministries.  Haven Ministries operates a seasonal Homeless Shelter, a Resource Center and Food Pantry in Queenstown, Our Daily Thread Thrift Store in Stevensville, Hope Warehouse in Queenstown, and a Food Pantry Truck in Sudlersville. CONTACT: Krista Pettit, 410-739-4363

Haven Ministries – One Woman’s Journey from Homelessness

Haven Ministries – One Woman’s Journey from Homelessness

Haven Ministries – One Woman’s Journey from Homelessness

By Amelia Blades Steward

Linda Bartholomew, age 44, of Grasonville has been homeless since 2013. She has had a genetic disorder since birth that affects one in a million people, leaving her in constant daily pain. The pain went untreated and she became addicted to marijuana and opioids at a young age before developing a heroin addiction later in her life. The addiction ultimately caused her to lose her three children and her home.

After getting clean in 2019, Linda felt the time was right and reached out to Sandi Wiscott, Director of Operations and Case Management at Haven Ministries in Stevensville, to start case management. Through support from Haven Ministries, Linda has gotten her own apartment and created a stable life for herself.

“I had seen Sandi help others and decided to reach out to her in April 2020. I knew I couldn’t ask for help until I was clean. I was tired of living with that gorilla on my back,” Linda comments.

“Sandi helped me out tremendously – helping me find a place to live and getting the medical care I needed at Johns Hopkins. She is the only one in my life who ever went to bat for me.”

Linda’s trip to Johns Hopkins confirmed her rare genetic disorder, which had never been diagnosed. The diagnosis will play a part in helping her to qualify for disability. The disorder causes Linda’s bones to be malformed. She has grown five full sets of teeth in her lifetime, which have had to be pulled; was born without any collarbone; has constant nerve pain from bone deformities, and even at one point became temporarily blind due to high blood pressure.

“I knew she shouldn’t live like this. She stayed in the Haven Ministries Homeless Shelter during the pandemic and received assistance through its case management program. We are happy to say that when the shelter season ended on May 1, everyone left with a place to call home,” states Sandi.

“I was living on workboats at the Narrows – it was all I knew and I felt safe there. My grandfather was a waterman. The watermen at the Narrows, however, had a betting pool about when I would die because of my lifestyle,” Linda reflects.

Sandi adds that Linda is very proud and initially didn’t want to get help from any agency. Her ethics and moral code had always been important to her. She soon learned, however, that there were people who wanted to help her.

“She has a big heart and is always giving back to her own network of people,” Wescott adds.

“The world has enough people who are not nice and I don’t need to be one of them. Respect, honesty, and loyalty don’t cost anything. I don’t judge anyone as I haven’t walked in their shoes,” Linda states.

“I was living wrong for so long and it didn’t get me anywhere. And now that I am living right, I am getting somewhere. My friends are seeing my progress and even the workboat community sees what I have accomplished.”

For information on Haven Ministries, visit haven-ministries.org or call 410-739-4363

Love shapes the ministry, love transforms people, and hope prevails at Haven Ministries.  Haven Ministries operates a seasonal Homeless Shelter, a Resource Center and Food Pantry in Queenstown, Our Daily Thread Thrift Store in Stevensville, Hope Warehouse in Queenstown, and a Food Pantry Truck in Sudlersville.

Pictured left to right are Linda Bartholomew of Grasonville and Sandi Wiscott, Director of Operations and Case Management at Haven Ministries.

Haven Ministries Celebrates First Anniversary in New Headquarters

Haven Ministries Celebrates First Anniversary in New Headquarters

Haven Ministries Celebrates First Anniversary in New Headquarters

Haven Ministries is celebrating the first anniversary of its new headquarters on July 14 from 4 to 6 p.m. at its location at 206 Del Rhodes Avenue in Queenstown (behind the Royal Farms). The open house celebration will include refreshments, tours of the organization’s headquarters, resource center, and food pantry, as well as information on Queen Anne’s County resources and job information.

“This event is to bring awareness to the public about our resources. We were not able to have our grand opening of the building because of the pandemic last year, so we are excited to share our facility with the public and our growing list of partners,” states Mary Jeeter, case manager for Haven Ministries.

“Without our community partners, this would not have been possible. We are grateful to the representatives from the Queen Anne’s County Commissioners, Queen Anne’s County Emergency Services, Queen Anne’s County Public Schools, the Queen Anne’s County Health Department, among others, who really supported us through this project,” adds Krista Pettit, Executive Director of Haven Ministries.

The Queen Anne’s County Health Department will be on hand at the celebration with information about Narcan and other resources. The headquarters building also provides free artwork and books, provided by Wye Parish Episcopal Church, for clients needing these items.

For further information, visit haven-ministries.org or call the Haven Ministries headquarters at 410-827-7194.

Love shapes the ministry, love transforms people, and hope prevails at Haven Ministries.  Haven Ministries operates a seasonal Homeless Shelter, a Resource Center and Food Pantry in Queenstown, Our Daily Thread Thrift Store in Stevensville, Hope Warehouse in Queenstown, and a Food Pantry Truck in Sudlersville.

Haven Ministries is celebrating the first anniversary of its new headquarters on July 14 from 4 to 6 p.m. at its location at 206 Del Rhodes Avenue in Queenstown (behind the Royal Farms). Pictured left to right are Mary Jeeter, case manager for Haven Ministries, and Chris Perkins, Food Pantry leader for Haven Ministries.

Haven Ministries Updates Friends Campaign

Haven Ministries Updates Friends Campaign

Haven Ministries is rebranding its Friends monthly giving program. Through the new “Sow the Seeds of Hope” Campaign, individuals and small businesses are encouraged to make monthly contributions of $10 a month to support Haven Ministries’ current programs and new expenses associated with its Homes of Hope, an expansion of its upcoming Housing Assistance Program.

“Our ‘Sow the Seeds of Hope’ Campaign will help us provide shelter, food, clothing and support for our vulnerable community members. It will also help people who are having difficulty finding affordable housing, connecting them to the appropriate services and eventually to permanent housing solutions,” states Krista Pettit, Executive Director of Haven Ministries.

“It’s an easy way to continually support Haven Ministries without making a big dent in the pocketbook at any one time,” states Janet Crutchley of Stevensville.

Kim Hannon, Owner of Ophiuroidea at Kent Narrows and St. Michaels, adds, “Ophiuroidea has been a Haven Ministries ‘Friends’ business partner for many years through their monthly donation plan.   It’s a great and easy way to support their mission every month!”

Haven Ministries operates Our Daily Thread Thrift Store in Stevensville and Hope Warehouse in Queenstown to benefit the agency’s outreach programs in Queen Anne’s County, including its upcoming housing assistance program, resource center, food pantries, street outreach, and seasonal shelter. Its Homes of Hope – two new single-family homes are currently being constructed in Stevensville.

Those who contribute to the “Sow the Seeds of Hope” Campaign will be entered to win one bushel of crabs and an outdoor high-pressure jet cooker valued at $350. The drawing will be held on Wine Down Wednesday, August 4 at Hemingway’s Restaurant in Stevensville. This fundraiser event starts at 5:30 p.m. and includes music by the Unified Jazz Ensemble.  Tickets are available at Haven-ministries.org for $25 per person to include a signature drink and hors d’ oeuvres.  The winner of the drawing does not need to be present to win.

For further information, visit haven-ministries.org or call Krista Pettit at 410-739-4363.

Love shapes the ministry, love transforms people, and hope prevails at Haven Ministries.  Haven Ministries operates a seasonal Homeless Shelter, a Resource Center and Food Pantry in Queenstown, Our Daily Thread Thrift Store in Stevensville, Hope Warehouse in Queenstown, and a Food Pantry Truck in Sudlersville.

Caption: Pictured is Taryn Chase, Managing Director Communication & Outreach for Haven Ministries, with the outdoor high-pressure jet cooker which will be given away, along with a bushel of crabs, to the winner of a drawing at the organization’s Wine Down Wednesday event on August 4 at Hemingway’s Restaurant. All those who contribute to Haven Ministries’ “Sow the Seeds of Hope” Campaign will be entered to win in the drawing.

Shoppers Give Back Through Haven Ministries’ Our Daily Thread Thrift Store and Hope Warehouse

Shoppers Give Back Through Haven Ministries’ Our Daily Thread Thrift Store and Hope Warehouse

Giving back is important during these times. One local nonprofit, Haven Ministries, is offering Shore residents and visitors resale shopping where shoppers can pay it forward to those in need. Haven Ministries Our Daily Thread Thrift Store in Stevensville and Hope Warehouse in Queenstown offer affordable merchandise and the purchases benefit the agency’s outreach programs in Queen Anne’s County, including its housing assistance program, resource center, food pantries, street outreach, and seasonal shelter.

Our Daily Thread Thrift Store has been providing quality name-brand clothing and household goods at deeply discounted prices for eight years. Clothing includes men’s and women’s casual clothing and coats, as well as accessories such as costume jewelry, shoes, handbags, scarves, and hats. The store also offers household kitchen items like small appliances, flatware, dishes, pots and pans, as well as collectibles, and toys, puzzles and a small number of books.

“Shoppers like the store because it looks like a boutique. We pay attention to our displays and they are beautiful. Our customers appreciate our new and gently worn clothing and quality items,” states Liz Bazzell, Store Manager for Our Daily Thread which has a loyal following of both locals and those just passing through on their way to the beach. Some people make a day of it and have lunch somewhere nearby after they shop.”

“We also have dedicated donors who like to donate because the money raised helps to support those in need.”

Our Daily Thread Thrift Store volunteer Linda Sheets of Grasonville, who began buying items from the shop for her antique store, now creates the shop’s displays, as well as works there. She comments, “Working in a thrift store is therapy for those of us who work here, as well as for the people who shop with us. Haven Ministries is a wonderful mission to support and the shop is a place for people to give back to the community.”

Haven Ministries’ newest resale business is Hope Warehouse which opened two and a half years ago in Queenstown. Hope Warehouse offers used appliances, furniture, tools, and building supplies for purchase at a lower cost.

“We have had a constant growth in donations and sales since we opened. Hope Warehouse appeals to people just starting their homes, people starting over, or people buying items to refinish and resell,” comments Susan Phillips, Hope Warehouse Manager.

The most popular items at Hope Warehouse are furniture, tools and small building supplies, as well as household items like mirrors, lamps, rugs, and appliances. Phillips adds, “It’s like your grandfather’s garage – a great place to find collectible tools. But we also have decorative items as well. During COVID, people are working on their homes and are changing things up. Many people are looking for project pieces and we have them. There is always something on sale every month which attracts shoppers as well.”

“We are a blessed society right now and have had nice things donated this year. Donors are encouraged to call for an appointment before dropping off items.”

Hope Warehouse is in need right now of able-bodied volunteers to help with lifting furniture, as well as volunteers to work at the register and to stage the items for sale.

Hope Warehouse, located at 6527 Friels Road in Queenstown (behind the Queenstown Outlets), is open Wednesday through Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Volunteers are needed. For further information or to volunteer or donate, contact Susan Phillips at [email protected] or call 410-490-8498.

Our Daily Thread Thrift Store, located at 425 Thompson Creek Road in Stevensville (behind the Cracker Barrel restaurant), is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and donations are accepted every day until 3 p.m. People wishing to donate should call Liz Bazzell ahead at 410-353-0455 to make arrangements.

Both the Thrift Store and Hope Warehouse are complying with COVID-19 guidelines to provide a safe shopping experience for customers.

Love shapes the ministry, love transforms people, and hope prevails at Haven Ministries.  Haven Ministries operates a seasonal Homeless Shelter, a Resource Center and Food Pantry in Queenstown, Our Daily Thread Thrift Store in Stevensville, Hope Warehouse in Queenstown, and a Food Pantry Truck in Sudlersville.

Haven Ministries’ New Mobile Food Pantry Truck Offers Hope to Northern Queen Anne’s County Residents

Haven Ministries’ New Mobile Food Pantry Truck Offers Hope to Northern Queen Anne’s County Residents

Haven Ministries’ New Mobile Food Pantry Truck Offers Hope to Northern Queen Anne’s County Residents

Haven Ministries is operating a new Mobile Food Pantry Truck where residents in northern Queen Anne’s County can go and “shop” for needed food items. The “store on wheels” will be parked at Faith Bible Church at 407 Dudley Corner Road in Sudlersville every week on Tuesdays and Fridays, offering a selection of non-cooked food items for area residents. 

“During the timeframe of opening our Headquarters in Queenstown, Haven Ministries was invited into the northern part of Queen Anne’s County as a trusted community partner to help with food distribution. Haven Ministries partners with The Judy Center/Queen Anne’s County Public Schools to supply food to this part of the county. Our drive-thru food model averaged about 110 people every month,” states Krista Pettit, executive director of Haven Ministries. 

“Having a vehicle outfitted with shelves, so it is essentially a store on wheels, enables us to provide consistency, efficiency, and more dignity in the process of food distribution. It offers individuals greater food options and minimizes food waste. The truck will also enable us to move into any part of the community experiencing a disaster to respond to essential needs.” 

The Haven Ministries Food Pantry Truck will be at the Faith Bible Church on Tuesdays from 12 noon until 7 p.m. and on Fridays from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. The Food Pantry Truck is open by appointment only and the hours are subject to change depending on the appointment times. Scheduling helps ensure the health and safety of volunteers, staff, and clients. Appointments can be made by calling 410-827-7194.  Residents are asked to bring a photo ID to participate.

With increased demands for its food pantries and overall services in Queen Anne’s County, Haven Ministries relocated its food pantries from Stevensville and Centreville, along with its Centreville Resource Center, to a new Food Pantry/Resource Center at 206 Del Rhodes Avenue in Queenstown in July. Along with the Food Pantry Truck, the headquarters is helping meet the growing need for assistance. The CARES Fund helped with the opening of the headquarters and purchasing of the Food Pantry Truck for northern Queen Anne’s County.

Pettit adds, “The need is there in northern Queen Anne’s County and we are trying to meet that need.”

For further information on the Food Pantry Truck, visit haven-ministries.org or call 410-827-7194. Anyone wishing to volunteer for the Food Pantry Truck can call Gail Lundberg at 410-443-7696 or email [email protected].

Love shapes the ministry, love transforms people, and hope prevails at Haven Ministries.  Haven Ministries operates a seasonal Homeless Shelter, a Resource Center and Food Pantry in Queenstown, Our Daily Thread Thrift Store in Stevensville, Hope Warehouse in Queenstown, and a Food Pantry Truck in Sudlersville.

Pictured is Haven Ministries’ new Food Truck Pantry serving northern Queen Anne’s County in Sudlersville on Tuesdays from 12 noon until 7 p.m. and on Fridays from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. by appointment only.

Haven Ministries Expands Housing Assistance Program

Haven Ministries Expands Housing Assistance Program

Finding affordable housing in Queen Anne’s County can be challenging. The median rent in the county is approximately $1600 a month, $131 above the national average for rent, and the median home price is approximately $329,000, considerably higher than the national median home price of $231,200. Research from the National Low-Income Housing Coalition also reports that 71% of extremely low-income households spend more than 50% of their income on rent. Haven Ministries has announced that it will be providing improvements to properties in Stevensville this fall to operate a housing assistance program that will support local residents when affordable housing is unattainable.

While participating in the Housing Assistance Program, participants will work closely with a Haven Ministries case manager to ensure that they are positioned for success to secure safe and stable long- term housing once their respective program period is over, usually within two years. Individuals and families who live in Queen Anne’s County can apply for the program, must pass the background checks, pay a program fee, and voluntarily agree to work with a case manager. Haven Ministries will connect participants to area resources such as education, jobs, and job training allowing individuals and families to stabilize, build up their resources, and successfully move on toward safe and affordable housing.

“We are thrilled to have found properties on which to build two beautiful, single family homes, one on each lot, within which to operate the Housing Assistance Program. The homes will be called Homes of Hope because that is what they are providing – HOPE. The project will provide significant improvements to the properties while also beautifying the neighborhood. In addition, we will be able to connect people who are having difficulty finding affordable housing to the appropriate services and eventually to permanent housing solutions,” said Krista Pettit, Executive Director of Haven Ministries.


Haven Ministries will continue to operate its seasonal shelter at Kent Island Methodist Church in Stevensville to offer emergency overnight safe and warm accommodations for individuals and families that do not have a dedicated location in which to sleep. Although both of these programs are important programs, they each serve a different population of community members with different needs.

According to Pettit, housing instability can include trouble paying rent or a mortgage, moving frequently due to the lack of affordable housing, or spending a majority of household income on housing. Because Queen Anne’s county is lacking affordable housing, Haven Ministries is stepping up to meet the urgent needs facing many county residents.
Haven Ministries Housing Assistance Program is being funded by private donations and grants, including those from foundations made directly to Haven Ministries, and through major fundraising activities. A program fee will also be collected from the Housing Assistance Program clients approved for the program. There are many local businesses, which the organization plans to recognize soon, who have contributed supplies and/or labor, such as Lundberg Builders, Torchio Architects, Lane Engineering, and Increte. Haven Ministries also invites other companies to partner with them.

Pettit added, “We appreciate the community stepping up and recognizing the need for affordable housing in this county, as well as supporting our Housing Assistance Program. We hope others will join those who have already made donations in support of this important program.” For further information about donating or becoming a Business Partner of Haven Ministries, visit haven-
ministries.org or call Krista Pettit at 410-739-4363.

Love shapes the ministry, love transforms people, and hope prevails at Haven Ministries. Haven Ministries operates a seasonal Homeless Shelter, a Resource Center and Food Pantry at 206 Del Rhodes Avenue in Queenstown, Our Daily Thread Thrift Store in Stevensville, Hope Warehouse in Queenstown, and a Resource Center at Fisher Manor.

Rendering by Torchio Architects

Haven Ministries Hosts Harvest For Hope Online Auction

Haven Ministries Hosts Harvest For Hope Online Auction

Haven Ministries Hosts Harvest for Hope Online Auction

Haven Ministries has announced it will be hosting a Harvest of Hope Online Auction between November 12 and November 14 to benefit its essential services. Participants will be able to purchase one-of-a-kind art, jewelry, accessories, dining options, indoor and outdoor experiences like wine tastings and spa treatments, and sports memorabilia.

There is something for everyone in the online auction with items ranging in price from $30 to $1000. Special items include sporting clay lessons for two at The Point at Pintail, a half-day light tackle or fly fishing experience with up to three anglers on the Chesapeake Bay with Anglers Connection Guide Services, Raven’s sports swag, and a romantic get-a-way for two at the Kent Manor Inn and diamond stud earrings from TNT Jewelers. Proceeds from the Harvest of Hope event will provide HOPE through shelter, food, clothing, and support to area residents.

According to Taryn Chase, Haven Ministries Business and Marketing Development Director, “This event is in response to the cancellation this year of both our Best Girlfriend Night Out and Beef, Bonfires and Cigars annual events. Both were extremely important to funding the services we provide, which have continued to grow during the pandemic.”

“The community has stepped up to help us meet this increased demand for services. We are especially appreciative of the generosity of our business partners and local businesses.”

The Harvest of Hope Auction Preview opens November 1. Participants can register online at Haven-Ministries.org. Winning auction items can be picked up after the auction by contacting Taryn Chase at 410-490-0925.

Love shapes the ministry, love transforms people, and hope prevails at Haven Ministries.  Haven Ministries operates a seasonal Homeless Shelter, a Resource Center and Food Pantry at 206 Del Rhodes Avenue in Queenstown, Our Daily Thread Thrift Store in Stevensville, Hope Warehouse in Queenstown, and a Resource Center at Fisher Manor.

Pictured left to right are Isabelle Lomax from TNT Jewelers with Taryn Chase, Haven Ministries Business and Marketing Development Director. TNT Jewelers has donated diamond stud earrings to Haven Ministries Harvest of Hope Silent Auction scheduled for November 12 to 14.

2020 Shore Update Best Of

2020 Shore Update Best Of

2020 Shore Update Best Of

Front Line Hero

By Marcus Hoffman

Krista Pettit, founder of Haven Ministries, honored as our front line hero.

For the last several years, Haven Ministries has served an important role in our community-helping those going through economic hardship. Whether it be getting food on

the table for a hungry family or giving someone without a home a safe place to sleep, Haven Ministries provides an invaluable service to Queen Anne’s County.

The pandemic and subsequent lockdown only accentuates Haven Ministries’ importance.

Many lost their jobs and were forced to deal with a backed up unemployment system and

suddenly had to turn to Haven Ministries for help. Even some who didn’t experience financial hardship had to turn to Haven Ministries during the brief food shortage. Because of everything Haven Ministries has done for Queen Anne’s County during COVID, we think they embody the essence of #Shorestrong. I got to speak with Krista Pettit, the founder of Haven Ministries, to learn a little more about the organization’s origins, how they adapted to best serve the community during the pandemic and the role faith plays in what Haven Ministries does.

What led to you starting Haven Ministries?

Many years ago, my family and I personally experienced financial hardship. In order to make ends meet, we had to accept help from our family including our church family. As difficult

as that was, I experienced the power of the church in walking alongside those facing difficult times and that changed my life forever. During this timeframe at a church worship service, I heard God call to me, telling me to start a homeless shelter. After ignoring this command for some time, the burden to start a shelter became overwhelming. One day I cried out to God and

asked him how I was to start a shelter, and He replied – “call the churches.” I started calling the area churches who affirmed that they were indeed interested in joining the efforts of helping the homeless. I quickly scheduled a meeting, and Haven Ministries was born.

How has COVID changed how Haven Ministries does things? Has the transition been difficult?

Haven Ministries’ essential services have remained open throughout the pandemic. In order to meet HUD and CDC recommendations, we have had to totally reconfigure how we distribute services – which has led to drive-thru food pantries, completing applications for financial assistance by phone, and relocating the shelter to a hotel. To meet the increased need for food, Haven Ministries opened a head- quarters with a food pantry that is open five days a week for

consistent, efficient and dignified food distribution. We were also invited into Sudlersville to serve in an area experiencing high food insecurity.  The homeless shelter which usually closes the end of April, has remained open throughout the year to meet the need in this extraordinary time. To date, 32 people have been served at the shelter hotel since March. The greatest change I have seen is the difficulty of raising funds when all of our spring, summer and fall fundraisers have been canceled due to health and safety issues. Trying to raise all funds virtually is quite a challenge.

Have you witnessed something you thought was particularly outstanding that someone else did to help bring our community together?

I have witnessed the community agencies come together through the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) and other collaborations to tackle COVID related issues in Queen Anne’s County. It has been amazing to watch how we all come together to meet the challenges of this unique time in history. There are so many public servants and volunteers who, out of love and concern for others, do amazing things.

Can you share a story that particularly touched your heart while you were serving our community during COVID?

A young man came to one of our food distribution events after recently losing his job due to the COVID crisis. He couldn’t believe he was there; he said he never saw himself having to accept this kind of help. Although it was humbling, he shared that he was very grateful to be able to bring food home to his family. It is just one story, but it has been told over and over again this past year by different folks. It reminds me how important it is for the community to help those in need, but also to treat them with dignity and respect.

How has COVID affected you personally?

I think I have been too busy to reflect on it! Many years ago, I began starting each day early in the morning with a time of prayer and reading of scripture. This discipline helps me start each day prepared for whatever will come my way. This private time with God reminds me that He is in control, and I can trust Him. Because of this, I have not been personally worried during this time, but it has been difficult to watch the challenges facing my children (and other young people in our community). My daughter had the difficult decision of returning to school with the real possibility of being sent home early. My son missed out on many of his senior year activities

and now he is at boot camp to become a Marine… and we may not be able to watch him graduate. So while I am at peace, I am also saddened by this particular time we live in. I grieve for all who are hurting and who have lost so much. But I also have hope, because I know greater days are ahead. Haven Ministries is more important now than ever, and we think they truly embody what it means to be Shore Strong. As Krista said, raising funds during a pandemic is difficult and If you would like to help support Haven Ministries, you can go to www.haven-ministries.org to find the many ways that you can help.

HAVEN MINISTRIES was also recognized as an

‘Organization that Makes Our Community a Better Place’

‘Organization Exemplifying #ShoreStrong During COVID’

‘Volunteers with the Biggest Hearts’

They help others who are less fortunate in our community… They are dedicated to helping those in need… They bring volunteers together to help those in our community who are most in need…

OUR DAILY THREAD was also recognized as an

‘Organization that Makes Our Community a Better Place’

“Our Daily Thread is a great community service and wonderful place to shop and find deals.”

A Tuesday Morning Pick-Me-Up!

A Tuesday Morning Pick-Me-Up!

A Tuesday Morning Pick-Me-Up!

Krista Pettit – October 2020

I recently received an email from Jennifer Hall, Program Specialist & SHIP/SMP Coordinator at QAC Area Agency on Aging sharing the success story of a client.

She sent a “Tuesday morning pick up” and an example of how the organizations in Queen Anne’s County work together and what an impact these services can have on someone’s life.

Jennifer Hall and Cindy Boone, QAC Area Agency on Aging, worked with a gentleman, “Mr. Bill” over the last year.  “Mr. Bill” has a long history of ‘homelessness and hopelessness’ that he has allowed us to share.  They are happy to report that “he is now successfully housed, compliant with mental health therapy, and receiving all benefits he is entitled to.”  Jennifer says “To say that this makes me feel so happy is an understatement.  To see the joy in a client’s eyes where there was nothing but hopelessness at one point is overwhelming.  We all play such a significant role in helping people on a daily basis.”  “This gentleman is a true QAC Community Services and Haven Ministries success story!!!!!”

Our own Case Manager & Director of Operations, Sandi Wiscott, also worked with “Mr. Bill” as a client for 5 years. He has used the resources provided by Haven Ministries; The Emergency Winter Shelter, Daily Thread Thrift Store, Emergency Food Pantry and the resource center to overcome his financial and health hardships.  Sandi is happy to let us know that “Mr. Bill” has been able to stabilize his situation with permanent housing and is overjoyed to have recently received a vehicle generously donated by Robert Wade of Maid Healthy, which will make life tremendously better for him!

In a year of uncertainty, we are so grateful for the kindness and compassion given to our clients. “Mr. Bill” is both humbled and grateful for all the assistance he has received from everyone!

Pictured:
Jenifer Hall, “Mr. Bill” and Cindi Boone with a car donated by Robert Wade of Maid Healthy

 

Spunkwear Donates a Portion of Mask Sales to Haven Ministries

Spunkwear Donates a Portion of Mask Sales to Haven Ministries

Spunkwear Donates a Portion of Mask Sales to Haven Ministries

Spunkwear, a local apparel company based on Kent Island, had to pivot its business last spring with the arrival of COVID-19. Sheilah Ruppert, the founder of Spunkwear, got creative and designed a new line of facemasks that are lightweight, offering breathability and comfort, but which are also fun and stylish. 

“When we turned our attention to making masks, I decided that we’d donate a portion of sales to Haven Ministries. I’ve always been impressed with the uplifting work they do and the dignified manner in which they serve our community” states Ruppert.

Over the summer, the sales of Spunkwear’s masks for men, women, and children, as well as neck gaiters, took off. The company gained recognition regionally and nationally and was even featured on the television show, “The View,” this past July. To date, Spunkwear has donated $18,490 to Haven Ministries.

Since March, Haven Ministries has seen an increased need for its programs and services throughout Queen Anne’s County. The Shelter has remained open throughout 2020 serving 52 people, including 12 children.  Over 3500 people in Queen Anne’s County have received 81,516 pounds of food and Haven Ministries has provided over $23,000 of financial assistance to its neighbors. As the winter months near, the organization is hoping that other local businesses will step up as business partners as Spunkwear has done.

“We can’t begin to thank Spunkwear for their generous support during this time. As we move into the fall and winter months, we will have a continued need for funds to support shelter, food, clothing, and resources for those challenged by COVID.  As residents of Queen Anne’s County continue to struggle with finding affordable housing, we will also require funds for housing assistance,” comments Krista Pettit, Executive Director of Haven Ministries.

For further information about donating or becoming a Business Partner of Haven Ministries, visit haven-ministries.org or call Krista Pettit at 410-739-4363.

Love shapes the ministry, love transforms people, and hope prevails at Haven Ministries.  Haven Ministries operates a seasonal Homeless Shelter, a Resource Center and Food Pantry at 206 Del Rhodes Avenue in Queenstown, Our Daily Thread Thrift Store in Stevensville, Hope Warehouse in Queenstown, and a Resource Center at Fisher Manor.

Pictured left to right are Krista Pettit, Executive Director of Haven Ministries, receiving a check from Sheilah Ruppert owner of Spunkwear, a local apparel company based on Kent Island. To date, Spunkwear has donated $18,490 to Haven Ministries from the sale of its new line of facemasks.

Haven Ministries Works with Community Partners to Expand Food Distribution in Northern Queen Anne’s County

Haven Ministries Works with Community Partners to Expand Food Distribution in Northern Queen Anne’s County

Haven Ministries Works with Community Partners to Expand Food Distribution in Northern Queen Anne’s County

Haven Ministries is partnering with The Judy Center/Queen Anne’s County Public Schools and Chesapeake Multicultural Resource Center to expand its food distribution in northern Queen Anne’s County, specifically in the Sudlersville area.

The Judy Center, which is a Maryland Food Bank distribution partner, has been working with the Emergency Operations Committee in Queen Anne’s County during the pandemic to reach high food insecurity areas in the county with centralized food distribution at the Sudlersville Elementary and Middle Schools and Church Hill Elementary School. Haven Ministries was asked to join forces with partnering agencies and organizations in the northern portion of Queen Anne’s County to assist in the streamlining of food distribution services.  A pop-up drive-through food pantry at Sudlersville Park in August reached over 125 families with over 17,000 pounds of food.

“This has been a broad-based community effort. It has a lot of moving parts, but Haven Ministries has a smooth system to handle it all,” comments Elizabeth Miller, LCSW-C, Queen Anne’s County Public Schools Program Coordinator. “As we move forward with this location, it will provide for more efficient, effective and equitable food distribution meeting the unmet needs of individuals and families in the northern part of the county.”

According to Krista Pettit, Executive Director of Haven Ministries, the organization is looking to create a more permanent food pantry in Sudlersville in the future to offer individuals greater food options and to minimize food waste.

Haven Ministries is also partnering with Chesapeake Multicultural Resource Center, helping families affected by COVID-19 and who are quarantined to stay at home and recover while food and supplies are delivered to them.

“Haven Ministries has been so generous with our families in Grasonville, Church Hill, Sudlersville, and Queenstown. Every need has been met – including food, diapers, and formula. They have even been supporting families with their utility and rent payments. These families have been so grateful,” states Victoria Gomez Lozano, Hispanic Outreach Coordinator for Chesapeake Multicultural Resource Center.

She adds, “We couldn’t be more thankful for the support they are providing for these families.”

With increased demands for its food pantries and overall services in Queen Anne’s County, Haven Ministries relocated its food pantries from Stevensville and Centreville, along with its Centreville Resource Center, to a new Food Pantry/Resource Center at 206 Del Rhodes Avenue in Queenstown in July. By streamlining its services, the organization is creating a more centralized location to provide services, improving efficiencies for its clients, staff, and volunteers. At the new location, customers can select their own food items once a month and connect to much-needed resources in one location.

The Queenstown Center, including the food pantry and resource center, is open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and one day a week from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Clients must register first by calling 410-827-7194. The Resource Center at the Fisher Manor Housing Development in Grasonville is open on the second Saturday of each month from 9 a.m. to noon. The pop-up food pantries in Sudlersville are held monthly. For further information, visit haven-ministries.org.

Love shapes the ministry, love transforms people, and hope prevails at Haven Ministries.  Haven Ministries operates a seasonal Homeless Shelter, a Resource Center and Food Pantry at 206 Del Rhodes Avenue in Queenstown, Our Daily Thread Thrift Store in Stevensville, and Hope Warehouse in Queenstown.

Commissioners award grant for $10,000 to Haven Ministries

Commissioners award grant for $10,000 to Haven Ministries

BY ANGELA PRICE [email protected]

CENTREVILLE — At the April 14 meeting, the Queen Anne’s County Commissioners unanimously approved a request from Haven Ministries for $10,000 to help the organization continue to provide essential services during the coronavirus pandemic, including the emergency homeless shelter, food pantries and resource centers.

Haven Ministries Executive Director Krista Pettit made the request in an April 8 letter. She said the resource center provides around $4,340 in financial assistance to an average of 33 people monthly and the food pantries distribute up to 10,000 pounds of food at each of two monthly locations.

“Many more families are beginning to feel impacted as hourly wages are scaled back, businesses in our community are shutting down and the schools have closed,” Pettit wrote.

At the March food pantry, Haven Ministries served 857 people — 100 were new clients.

“As a result of the increased need we now distribute emergency food on a daily basis,” Pettit continued.

From October to April, the shelter served 38 people, including 12 children. “In anticipation of additional emergency conditions we are planning to extend the shelter operations into the summer months,” Pettit said.

Commissioner Jim Moran said Pettit told him the organization had to close its resale shop, which usually brings in about $3,000 a month; cancel fundraisers; and relocate shelter operations from Kent Island United Methodist Church, where the bunks are too close together for proper social distancing measures, to area hotels.

Having to use hotels alone costs Haven an estimated $10,000 a month, Moran said.

The county needs to provide these services, and the best way to do that is through intermediaries like Haven Ministries, Commissioner Steve Wilson said.

The commissioners voted 5-0 to award Haven Ministries the $10,000 grant.

Anyone wishing to make a donation can send a check to Haven Ministries, P.O. Box 44, Chester, MD 21619 or on the website: haven-ministries.org.

Anyone needing emergency food or financial assistance can contact Haven Ministries by calling 410-739-4363. For emergency shelter services, call 410-739-7859.

Haven Ministries Relocates Food Pantries and Centreville Resource Center to Queenstown

Haven Ministries Relocates Food Pantries and Centreville Resource Center to Queenstown

Haven Ministries Relocates Food Pantries and Centreville Resource Center to Queenstown

With increased demands for its food pantries and overall services, Haven Ministries is relocating its food pantries from Stevensville and Centreville, along with its Centreville Resource Center, to a new Food Pantry/Resource Center at 206 Del Rhodes Avenue in Queenstown as of July 13. In May, the agency provided food items to 113 new people and distributed 25,765 pounds of food from its food pantries representing a 10,000-pound increase in food. By streamlining its services, Haven Ministries is creating a more centralized location to provide services, improving efficiencies for its clients, staff, and volunteers.

“Our new location will be open daily for clients and will offer a store-style model for food selection. We are asking people to first call our Resource Center at 410-827-7194, however, to register with us,” says Krista Pettit, Executive Director of Haven Ministries.

Food will be set up in this new permanent location and restocked easily by volunteers. Instead of receiving a set box of food items, customers will be able to select their own food items twice a month, therefore, eliminating food waste.

“The other benefit to our new location is the ability to move our Centreville Resource Center to this site so that we can connect people to much-needed resources in one location. This will be an added efficiency and will hopefully reach more people in need,” she adds.

Haven Ministries has operated food pantries in two locations in Queen Anne’s County once a month. The first food pantry has operated at Safe Harbor Presbyterian Church in Stevensville since 2013. The second food pantry has operated at Centreville United Methodist Church in Centreville since 2018.

The consolidation of services is also enabling Haven Ministries to address the increased need for food in the Sudlersville area. On July 9, the organization hosted a pop-up food pantry at the old Middle School in Sudlersville. Pettit adds, “We hope to create a more permanent food pantry in Sudlersville in the future.”

According to Jennifer Small, Salisbury Director of the Maryland Food Bank, the Maryland Food Bank has been looking at the root causes of hunger in the State through a five-year strategic plan. She comments, “One of the solutions we are looking at is developing tools and partnerships to meet clients where they are. This would be a sort of ‘Super Pantry’ which in addition to food, would provide wrap-around resources and health care. When COVID-19 hit, we were unable to move this model forward.”

“What Haven Ministries is doing in Queenstown fits the model we had envisioned. It will be wonderful to have a hub like this in Queen Anne’s County. We hope to see this best practice model in every county in Maryland in the future,” she adds.

Eric Johnson, Emergency Management Planner for Queen Anne’s County, states that the County’s Food Security Task Force, made up of the Department of Social Services, Haven Ministries, the Judy Center, the Maryland Food Bank, the Queen Anne’s County Public Schools, and the Queen Anne’s County Office of Community Services, has been keeping track of the demand for food by zip code. He comments, “We have a plan in place which identifies food insecurity areas and gets food into the hands of the families who need it. The physical locations are important in meeting the needs by connecting people to the resources they need. Having a food pantry centrally located in Queenstown will serve a great need in the County. As resources are scarce everywhere, we are all doing more with less and the consolidation of services makes sense.”

“Even with COVID, we have been seeing a glimmer of strategic work that is helping families in different ways, so we can ultimately end hunger in our communities. A lot of greatness has come out of this crisis. How communities have rallied to support their own has been amazing,” states Small.

Johnson adds, “We are looking at a new normal with the pandemic. We have to continue to work together to come up with creative solutions to meet people where they are.”

Haven Ministries plans to open its new Queenstown location on July 13. The Center, including the food pantry and resource center, will be open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and one day a week from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Clients are encouraged to register first by calling 410-827-7194. The Resource Center at the Fisher Manor Housing Development in Grasonville is open on the second Saturday of each month from 9 a.m. to noon. For further information, visit haven-ministries.org.

Love shapes the ministry, love transforms people, and hope prevails at Haven Ministries.  Haven Ministries operates a seasonal Homeless Shelter, a Resource Center and Food Pantry at 206 Del Rhodes Avenue in Queenstown, Our Daily Thread Thrift Store in Stevensville, and Hope Warehouse in Queenstown.

Haven Ministries’ new location at 206 Del Rhodes Avenue in Queenstown will house its two county food pantries and Resource Center.

Coldwell Banker Waterman Realty Contributes $10,000 to Haven Ministries

Coldwell Banker Waterman Realty Contributes $10,000 to Haven Ministries


Coldwell Banker Waterman Realty Contributes $10,000 to Haven Ministries

As Haven Ministries deals with record numbers of requests for food and will now continue its shelter operations through the summer months for those experiencing homelessness, the need for support is greater than ever. To help meet the growing needs, Coldwell Banker Waterman Realty of Chester, a Gold Level Sponsor with Haven Ministries, has donated $10,000 to the organization.

Kevin Waterman, Office Manager and Vice President of Coldwell Banker Waterman Realty, comments, “We at Waterman Realty are strong believers that part of being a local business is giving back to the community, which is why we support many local causes and have been supporters of Haven Ministries for several years. The organization plays a vital role in helping people in our community who are experiencing the most need. Haven Ministries is also committed to providing housing assistance to people in need – something that resonates with us because of the industry we are in. Safe, affordable housing is important to everyone.”

“Given the extraordinary times we are in, we are especially glad that we can help Haven Ministries keep its seasonal shelter open through the summer months. We hope other local businesses can step up and help Haven Ministries to continue to meet the growing needs in our community,” he adds.

Along with the generosity of Coldwell Banker Waterman Realty, the Queen Anne’s County Commissioners recently donated $10,000 to Haven Ministries to help the organization continue to provide essential services during the pandemic, including the emergency homeless shelter, food pantries, and resource centers.

Krista Pettit, Executive Director of Haven Ministries, states, “We are so appreciative of these donations and the donations we are receiving from anonymous donors and community members – no matter what the size of the donation is, these donations are helping us try and meet the needs that are out there with this pandemic.  In addition to large gifts of Coldwell Banker Waterman Realty and the Queen Anne’s County Commissioners, we would like to mention the generosity, during this health crisis, of the Sloan Family through the Jacob Sloan Foundation, Stoney and Virginia Duffey, Mid-Shore Community Foundation, PNC Bank, and Northrop Grumman, Centerville Rotary Club, Kent Island Elks Lodge, United Way of Queen Anne’s County, Women and Girls Fund, and local churches who have also supported us.

Pettit reports that Haven Ministries Food Pantries served 273 people in March, where 100 of those served were new to the food distribution. In April, 335 people received food and of these people, 122 were brand new to the food distribution program with 208 people receiving assistance at the Safe Harbor Location of the Food Pantry in Stevensville.

Pettit adds, “Because the need is expected to increase throughout the summer months, we are looking to individuals, businesses, and organizations to continue to support us by donating food to our Food Pantries.  Some people are even donating a portion of their stimulus checks to help us. It’s been incredible how people are stepping up and donating. We can’t express how thankful we are to everyone who has contributed. It’s not possible to list them all here.”

Haven Ministries will provide a pop-up Food Pantry at the K-Mart Parking Lot in Stevensville on Friday, May 29 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. The Food Pantry will be a drive-thru format with extra health and safety protocols in place. Emergency food is available daily by calling 410-739-4363.

Haven Ministries two Food Pantries are located at Centreville United Methodist Church at 608 Church Hill Road in Centreville and Safe Harbor Presbyterian Church at 931 Love Point Road in Stevensville and are open the third Friday of each month from 5:30 to 7 p.m. The Resource at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church at 301 South Liberty Street in Centreville is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.  Anyone in need of shelter should call 410-739-7859. For further information visit haven-ministries.org.

Love shapes the ministry, love transforms people, and hope prevails at Haven Ministries.  Haven Ministries operates a seasonal Homeless Shelter, a Resource Center at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Centreville and at Fisher Manor in Grasonville, the Haven Ministries Food Pantries at Safe Harbor Presbyterian Church in Stevensville and Centreville United Methodist Church in Centreville, Our Daily Thread Thrift Store in Stevensville and Hope Warehouse in Queenstown.

Kevin Waterman of Coldwell Banker Waterman Realty recently made a $10,000 donation to Krista Pettit, Executive Director of Haven Ministries.

Online Concert Series Funds Shelter, Food, and Financial Resources for those in need

Online Concert Series Funds Shelter, Food, and Financial Resources for those in need

Haven Ministries Online Concert Series Funds Shelter, Food, and Financial Resources for Those in Need

Haven Ministries is hosting an online concert series with Macum Creek Concerts to raise funds for the growing need for services in Queen Anne’s County.  The Haven Ministries concerts will be broadcast live on Facebook Live on Thursday nights at 7 p.m. for the next few weeks.

Krista Pettit, Executive Director of Haven Ministries, comments, “COVID19 has impacted the revenue we usually get from our fundraisers, our Thrift Shop, and Hope Warehouse – all of which have either been canceled, postponed or closed. This revenue would typically fund our services to those in need in the county. To meet this need, we decided to get creative with a concert series where people can donate while listening to some amazing singer-songwriters and their donations will be matched by a generous anonymous donor.”

“This is a great way to enjoy quality entertainment while helping a local charity, from the comfort of your living room,” she adds.

The first concert in the series on April 30 at 7 p.m. will feature Nora Jane Struthers, a nationally-known touring artist from Nashville, TN. Struthers is an Americana, singer/songwriter who sings Appalachian bluegrass and country music. She has headlined at The Soundry (Columbia MD), Freeman Stage (Milford, DE), Gypsy Sally’s (Washington DC), Kennedy Center Millennial Stage, as well as dozens of other venues, festivals and house concerts across the US. She has released seven records, the most recent, “Bright Lights, Long Drives, First Words,” was released in 2019.

According to NPR Music, “Fans of Dixie Chicks, Alison Krauss and Dolly Parton, take notice: Nora Jane Struthers embodies everything you could want in an Americana singer-songwriter.”

The Concert Series continues on May 7 and May 14 with some other nationally-known Nashville Americana folk artists. The idea originated with Kent Island residents Dave and Kathy Airel who run Macum Creek Concerts. The two who share a love of music have been holding “house concerts” in their homes for several years and decided to use them to help the community.

Dave Airel comments, “We started having house concerts as a hobby because we just wanted to have music in our home, and because we wanted to help these up and coming artists from Nashville and Austin broaden their audience in the Delmarva region.”

According to Airel, after getting to know Krista and her husband Chris, the Pettit’s suggested the idea of offering the concerts as a way to help Haven Ministries. According to Airel, this is just one of the creative solutions coming out of COVID-19 which can help nonprofits. It is also a way to get new listeners for some of the artists by seeking out live performances, including at house concerts like Macum Creek Concerts.

During this health crisis, Haven Ministries essential services remain open including its homeless shelter, food pantries, and financial resources. Pettit points out that it costs $85 per day to house two people with shelter and food. Haven Ministries Shelter continues to house men, women, and children even though in normal times the Shelter would close in April. Per recommendations from HUD and CDC, Haven Ministries is hoping to increase its shelter services into the summer but is seeking donations to make this possible.

To date, 273 people attended both food pantries held in March, which included 100 new people. A total of 857 people in households received food, including 315 children, 438 adults, and 104 seniors. In addition, over 20 bags of food are distributed weekly.  The number of food requests is increasing daily.

To learn more about supporting Haven Ministries, visit haven-ministries. There may be a special guest appearance on the Haven Ministries Concert Series.  Check the Haven Ministries Facebook Page havenministriesshelter often for any additions to the schedule. For further information about upcoming shows, visit Haven Ministries Facebook page or Macum Creek Concerts at macumcreekconcerts.com.

Love shapes the ministry, love transforms people, and hope prevails at Haven Ministries.  Haven Ministries operates a seasonal Homeless Shelter, a Resource Center at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Centreville and at Fisher Manor in Grasonville, the Haven Ministries Food Pantries at Safe Harbor Presbyterian Church in Stevensville and Centreville United Methodist Church in Centreville, Our Daily Thread Thrift Store in Stevensville and Hope Warehouse in Queenstown.

Haven Ministries Responding with HOPE to COVID-19

Haven Ministries Responding with HOPE to COVID-19

Haven Ministries Responding with HOPE to COVID-19

Haven Ministries continues to provide critical essential services for those in need in Queen Anne’s County. The organization just launched a new resource for Queen Anne’s County called “QAC Neighbors Helping Neighbors.” This new Facebook Group will help support the most vulnerable people in the community amidst the Coronavirus pandemic and is being coordinated through county service agencies, especially for those who are homebound.

“In this unprecedented time, we are committed to assisting the changing needs of families across the county and want to ensure that resources are readily available and known. Many want to help others by sharing urgent supplies, grocery shopping, phone calls, donating to specific needs or sharing their talents with others,” says Krista Pettit, Executive Director of Haven Ministries.

How you can help:

•        Join the Facebook Group and watch for opportunities to support the needs of individuals in our community

•        Share the site with your friends, family, and others who you think could benefit.

•        Post resources or abilities that may help people who are shut-in.

•        If you have neighbors who are not online, let them know that resources are available and be the conduit to helping with their needs.

In addition to this new service, Haven Ministries continues to operate essential services, including an Emergency Homeless Shelter, Food Pantries and Resource Centers.  Haven Ministries Shelter is planning to extend its operations into the summer months. Anyone in need of shelter should call 410-739-7859.  Its two Food Pantries are located at Centreville United Methodist Church at 608 Church Hill Road in Centreville and Safe Harbor Presbyterian Church at 931 Love Point Road in Stevensville. Two Resource Centers, at Fisher Manor Housing Development in Grasonville and St. Paul’s Episcopal Church at 301 South Liberty Street in Centreville, remain open.  The location in Centreville is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.  The Grasonville location is open the second Saturday from 9-12. Currently, the Resource Centers assist those facing financial crises. An average of 33 people per month is receiving $4,340 in financial assistance. 

Haven Ministries Food Pantries, open once a month on Fridays from 5:30 to 7 p.m., are a drive-thru format with extra health and safety protocols in place. The next Haven Ministries Food Pantries will occur on Friday, April 17 from 5:30 to 7 p.m.

Pettit adds, “We had 273 people attend our food pantries last Friday, feeding 857 people total in households. Of this total, there were 315 children, 438 adults, and 104 seniors. This total included about 100 new people using our services.”

“We are also available for emergency food by calling 410-739-4363 or the Haven Ministries Resource Center at 410-758-0129.”

To meet the growing demands, Haven Ministries is looking for volunteers who are comfortable showing up and assisting with the Food Pantries.  Extra health and safety protocols are in place.  The sign up is online:  haven-minsitries.org under the tab:  Get Help. 

Pettit states, “During this public health crisis, many have been impacted.  We too are navigating uncommon challenges. We have called upon our staff to work shifts that volunteers could not cover and to help slow the spread of the virus, we have temporarily closed our Thrift Store and Warehouse and have postponed some of our fundraisers losing our major sources of revenue for the year.”

“Now more than ever the essential services we provide are critical and we are asking for your support to make sure anyone who needs food, shelter or resources can receive immediate assistance.”

Many more families are beginning to feel impacted as hourly wages are scaled back, businesses in the community are shutting down and the schools have closed. The requests of our residents are overwhelming as they are experiencing the impact of this crisis.

To meet this growing need, Haven Ministries has launched an emergency fund on Facebook in response to this extraordinary situation.  People can also donate on the Haven Ministries website:  haven-ministries.com.  All proceeds raised will help the organization respond with HOPE to support those in crisis. For further information visit haven-ministries.org.

Love shapes the ministry, love transforms people, and hope prevails at Haven Ministries.  Haven Ministries operates a seasonal Homeless Shelter, a Resource Center at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Centreville and at Fisher Manor in Grasonville, the Haven Ministries Food Pantries at Safe Harbor Presbyterian Church in Stevensville and Centreville United Methodist Church in Centreville, Our Daily Thread Thrift Store in Stevensville and Hope Warehouse in Queenstown.

Haven Ministries Host First Community Table Event

Haven Ministries Host First Community Table Event

Haven Ministries Hosts First Community Table Event

Haven Ministries is hosting its first Community Table event on Friday, February 28 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Q’s Private Venue at 51 Piney Narrows Road in Chester (the old Chester Outlets). Dinner will be prepared and served by Haven Ministries volunteers and is open to everyone in the community.

According to Krista Pettit, Executive Director of Haven Ministries, states, “The event will include food and fellowship and is free to the public. A brief discussion afterward will include sharing a teaching or parable told by Jesus, followed by open table discussions. It’s a great opportunity to meet new people in the community, to discuss matters of faith and hope, and will the first of several events we will hold in venues throughout the county.”

Although the event is free, contributions will be accepted. To register or for further information about Haven Ministries, visit haven-ministries.org or call 410-739-4363.

Love shapes the ministry, love transforms people, and hope prevails at Haven Ministries.  Haven Ministries operates a seasonal Homeless Shelter located at the Kent Island United Methodist Church in Stevensville, a Resource Center at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Centreville and at Fisher Manor in Grasonville, the Haven Ministries Food Pantries at Safe Harbor Presbyterian Church in Stevensville and Centreville United Methodist Church in Centreville, Our Daily Thread Thrift Store in Stevensville and Hope Warehouse in Queenstown.

Community Table Logo
Pictured is Krista Pettit, Haven Ministries Executive

Haven Ministries Opens Additional Resource Center in Grasonville

Haven Ministries Opens Additional Resource Center in Grasonville

Haven Ministries Opens Additional Resource Center in Grasonville

Haven Ministries has expanded its Resource Center services to include a location at the Fisher Manor Housing Development in Grasonville. This Resource Center is in addition to the Resource Center operated by Haven Ministries at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Centreville, which operates Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The new Resource Center in Grasonville will operate out of the Fisher Manor Drive location on the second Saturday of each month from 9 a.m. to noon. Both residents of Fisher Manor and the general public can utilize the services.

Krista Pettit, Executive Director of Haven Ministries, adds, “The Grasonville location will enable us to meet the needs of more people in the county, expanding our reach and helping people with resume writing, job searches, and budgeting – all skills people need to be prepared for the working world.”

She adds, “This is also a wonderful opportunity to partner with another service organization, CommUNITY Mentoring, who is already providing resources at this location.”

According to Mary Walker of Stevensville, a volunteer for over 15 years with CommUNITY Mentoring and a longtime volunteer with Haven Ministries, “It’s about connecting the people to the resources in Queen Anne’s County. Haven Ministries has been at this a while and we are trying to work together on this community need. It’s a natural extension to connect the two organizations with this effort.”

Walker adds, “There is an effort in Queen Anne’s County to do more collaboration, so we don’t duplicate services and provide better coordination of services.”

Although CommUNITY Mentoring focuses on connecting eighth-graders and above, who are at risk because they aren’t attending school or are not working, to local resources, the new Resource Center operated by Haven Ministries will serve anyone in need of these services.

According to Walker, once the Center gets underway, she hopes it can also offer food and household cleaning items.  She adds, “We are bringing the services to the people who need them most.”

Pictured is Edwin Gibbs, Resource Center Case Manager for Haven Ministries. Haven Ministries has expanded its Resource Center services to include a location at the Fisher Manor Housing Development in Grasonville.

Haven Ministries 3rd Annual Best Girlfriend Night Out Supports Haven Ministries Growing Programs

Haven Ministries 3rd Annual Best Girlfriend Night Out Supports Haven Ministries Growing Programs

3rd Annual Best Girlfriend Night Out Supports Haven Ministries Growing Programs

This year’s 3rd Annual Haven Ministries Best Girlfriend Night Out is themed, “Pretty in Pink,” and will be held on Friday, March 13 at Prospect Bay Country Club in Grasonville, MD. The event will kick off with a VIP Party featuring Crow Vineyard of Kennedyville, MD, from 5 to 6 p.m., followed by the public event from 6 to 9 p.m. All proceeds benefit Haven Ministries growing programs and services, including its Homeless Shelter in Stevensville, Resource Centers in Centreville and Grasonville, Food Pantries in Stevensville and Centreville, Our Daily Thread Thrift Store in Stevensville, and Hope Warehouse, with job training, in Queenstown.

According to Taryn Chase, Haven Ministries Business and Marketing Development Director, “We have decided to change this event from a weekend retreat to a night out so more people can attend.  It will still be the best girlfriend night out ever so bring your best friends and new friends for a complete night of pampering yourself and supporting Haven Ministries!”

This year’s Girlfriend Night Out event includes samplings and tastings from local purveyors, such as Lyons Distillery, Crow Vineyard, Chesapeake Chef Services, Chesapeake Celebrations, and Capriotti’s. Shopping experiences for items such as clothing, accessories, and home goods and inspirational demonstrations including yoga, skincare, and beauty treatments will be provided by such local businesses as HOBO Bags, Ophuredia, Wild Child Concrete, Wild Raven Boutique, Great Blue Fiber, Charm City Plastic Surgery, MakeUp by Sadie, Spray Tans by Katy, Salon Atelier, Simple Girl Designs, Charm Tree Jewelry,  I Do Make Up Artistry, Island Furniture Studio, Jackie Gallagher Designs, T’s Devine Treats, and Tidewater Cleaning Services. DJ Cory also returns for a fun night of dancing. This year’s new host is Prospect Bay Country Club who also supports Haven Ministries Annual Tea Party and Golf Tournament. Island Furniture Studio, the event’s Premier Sponsor, will again host a Hospitality Suite for the night.

According to Krista Pettit, Executive Director of Haven Ministries, “This event has really gotten momentum in the community. It’s a great way to have a fun night out with friends while supporting important outreach services for those in need in Queen Anne’s county. There continues to be a need in our county to move our shelter clients into safe and affordable housing. The efforts don’t stop there, however, as clients need training, jobs, and medical services too. We are finding our resource centers play a valuable role in the process. This fun event helps to fund these services.”

Colleen Thomas of Stevensville, a participant for the past several years, has found the event helps her feel connected, provides stress relief, is confidence-boosting, and offers new things to learn. She comments, “I am so excited to hear of another great best girlfriends event coming up!  It is always a great event spending precious time with girlfriends – meeting so many new girlfriends from all over and of all ages.  This year will surely be a great evening, one filled with much laughter, sharing, shopping, dancing and supporting one another in our ever so busy lives.  It also supports a great cause, Haven Ministries, giving hope and providing shelter, clothing, food, and support to those in need.” 

Haven Ministries Business Partners include BAAR, Increte, The Bay Times, What’s Up Media, PNC Bank, Construction Services & Supply, The Roof Center, Safe at Home Senior Care, Prospect Bay Country Club, Harris Crab House, Swan Cove Spa & Salon, The Narrows, Waterman Realty, Homeland Title & Escrow, Hemingway’s Restaurant, Range & Reef, The Shore Update, Miltec, Island Furniture Studio, Chesapeake Hearing Center, Holiday Inn Express, Crow Vineyard, Queenstown Bank, Island Dental Studio, Island Flooring, Lundberg Builders, McCrone, Realty Navigator, Shore United Bank, Rosendale Realty, Rotary Kent Island, Shore Sign, Chesapeake Chef Services, Blue Heron Catering, Chesa Del Crier, Chesapeake Celebrations, Capriotti’s- Chester, Island Athletic, Legal Shield, Rodan & Fields- Debi Ensor, Cari Healy Hair, Linda Prochaska, Bella Rose Medi Spa, Visiting Angels, Barbara Martin, Kent Island Minuteman Press, First Home Mortgage, The Winery, Rodan & Fields- Ann Allen.

Tickets are on sale at Haven-ministries.org. For more information please call Taryn Chase at 410-490-0925. For further information about Haven Ministries, visit haven-ministries.org or call 410-739-4363.

Love shapes the ministry, love transforms people, and hope prevails at Haven Ministries.  Haven Ministries operates a seasonal Homeless Shelter located at the Kent Island United Methodist Church in Stevensville, a Resource Center at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Centreville and at Fisher Manor in Grasonville, the Haven Ministries Food Pantries at Safe Harbor Presbyterian Church in Stevensville and Centreville United Methodist Church in Centreville, Our Daily Thread Thrift Store in Stevensville and Hope Warehouse in Queenstown.

Pictured left to right are Taryn Chase, Haven Ministries Business and Marketing Development Director; Krista Pettit, Haven Ministries Executive Director; and Liz Skibbie, Event Volunteer, enjoying Haven Ministries Annual Best Girlfriend Night Out. This year’s event will be held March 13, 2020 at Prospect Bay Country Club in Grasonville, MD.

Haven Ministries Hosts 3rd Annual Beef, Bonfires & Cigars

Haven Ministries Hosts 3rd Annual Beef, Bonfires & Cigars

Haven Ministries Hosts 3rd Annual Beef, Bonfires & Cigars

The 3rd Annual Beef, Bonfires & Cigars to benefit Haven Ministries will be held on November 2, 2019, from 6 to 9 p.m.  Once again, the event will be held at the beautiful Wye River Conference Center, 600 Aspen Drive in Queenstown.  It is an evening filled with food tastings and from local restaurants including The Narrows, Harris Crab House, Fisherman’s Inn, Chesapeake Chef Services, Range & Reef, Capriotti’s, Smoke Rattle and Roll, Bridges and Chef/ Author Vicky Mullaney, to name a few.  Beverage samples will be provided from The Winery, Lyons Distillery, and will include a cash bar with signature drinks.  Live music from John Frase and Forrest Anderson (formally of Hot Tub Limo), a Live and Silent Auction, a Prize Wheel, cars from Maserati and Alpha Romeo, boats from Annapolis Boat Sales, cigars from Port of Call and lit fireplaces throughout the venue will enhance the evening.  Various vendors will have items for purchase to jump-start holiday shopping.  The host sponsor of this year’s event is PNC Bank. 

Plan on spending the night at this stunning Four-Star Resort.  There are limited rooms available and reservations are being accepted directly at the Wye Conference Center.  You can also find a direct link to the hotel on the Haven Ministries web site under the Events tab.

Haven Ministries Business Partners include Diamond Level Sponsors: Island Furniture Studio, Increte, and BAAR. Sapphire Level Sponsors: The Bay Times, The Wye River Conference Center, What’s Up Media, and PNC Bank. Platinum Level Sponsors: Construction Services and Supply, The Roof Center, Safe at Home Senior Care, and Prospect Bay Country Club. Gold Level Sponsors: Harris Crab House, Riley Custom Homes, Swan Cove Salon, The Narrows, Waterman Realty, Homeland Title & Escrow, Hemingway’s Restaurant, Rang & Reef, and The Shore Update. Silver Level Sponsors: Chesapeake Hearing Center, Holiday Inn Express, Island Dental Studio, Lundberg Builders, Island Flooring, McCrone, Realty Navigator, Shore United Bank, US Healthcare, Rotary Kent Island, Serr.Biz, LLC, Rodan & Fields (Ann Allen), and Shore Sign. Bronze Level Sponsors: Chesapeake Chef Services, Blue Heron Catering, Chesa Del Crier, Capriotti’s (Chester), Joseph W. McCartin Insurance, Computer Island, Island Athletic, Island Athletic, Legal Shield, Maid Healthy, Rodan & Fields (Debi Ensor), Cari Healy Hair, Linda Prochaska, Bob Gosselin Photography, Bella Rosa Medi Spa, Visiting Angels, Barbara Martin, KI Minuteman Press, Kentmorr Restaurant, First Home Mortgage, and The Winery.

Proceeds from the “Beef, Bonfires and Cigars” event will support Haven Ministries Housing Assistance Program. Haven Ministries, with the support of its executive board, church coalition, staff, business owners, community agencies, and dedicated volunteers, is currently planning a long-term housing program to be located in the Kent Island area.  This long-term program will be funded by private donations made directly to Haven Ministries and enable the organization to offer year-round services in a consistent stable environment for those experiencing housing insecurities. The program, structured similar to that of a landlord-tenant relationship, will include a process for individuals and families to apply for the program, pass a background check, and agree to work with a case manager to transition into permanent housing. The goal of the Housing Assistance Program is to offer comprehensive resources including education, job training, and employment opportunities to give individuals and families the opportunity to stabilize, build up their resources, and successfully move on to safe and affordable housing.

Tickets to the “Beef, Bonfires and Cigars” cost $60 per person and are available online (click here). For further information, call 410-739-4363.

Love shapes the ministry, love transforms people, and hope prevails at Haven Ministries.  Haven Ministries operates a seasonal Homeless Shelter located at the Kent Island United Methodist Church in Stevensville, a Resource Center at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Centreville, the Haven Ministries Food Pantries at Safe Harbor Presbyterian Church in Stevensville and Centreville United Methodist Church in Centreville, Our Daily Thread Thrift Store in Stevensville and Hope Warehouse in Queenstown.

Pictured left to right are Haven Ministries Executive Director Krista Pettit, with supporters Mia Cranford and Robert Gazic.

The Face of Rural Homelessness on the Mid Shore

The Face of Rural Homelessness on the Mid Shore

The Face of Rural Homelessness on the Mid Shore

According to the National Low-Income Housing Coalition (NLIHC), in order to afford a two-bedroom rental property and not spend more than 30% of their income, Maryland residents need to earn $27.52 an hour (working 40 hours/week and 52 weeks a year). Research from the NLIHC also reports that 71% of extremely low-income households spend more than 50% of their income on rent and 61% of them report that they have had to make at least one sacrifice in the last three years because they are struggling to pay for housing.

For Edward Junior Newton, having a place to call home was not an issue until about seven years ago when his luck changed. Newton worked in a regular job in Delaware for 30 years, owning two houses during his lifetime and enjoying a productive life. After he started a painting business following retirement, he couldn’t find a place to rent that was affordable. Some unfortunate associations left Newton without any belongings and searching for a roof over his head. A friend let him stay in his outdoor shed over a period of seven years, that is until he suffered smoke inhalation from a stove in the shed which was not properly ventilated and nearly died.

Newton was hospitalized again later for an ulcer that developed on his ankle. This time when he was discharged from the hospital, a friend called Haven Ministries to help him get on his feet.

Newton recalls, “I didn’t know what to do. It’s the worse mess I ever got into. I trusted the wrong people. I didn’t have any family to turn to. I didn’t even have a birth certificate.”

Haven Ministries emergency winter shelter offered Newton temporary housing from February through April of this year. He made some good friends while in the shelter.

Sandi Wiscott, Director of Operations and Case Management, Haven Ministries, comments, “Everyone took to him. He is so kind, sweet, and quiet.”

Newton’s health has improved throughout the process. He had smoked for 30 years and has given it up to help his ankle wound heal. Through the resources at Haven Ministries he has gotten his Social Security benefits and Medicare insurance in place. Wiscott and the staff of Haven Ministries helped Newton find permanent housing in Caroline County. He used the resources through Haven Ministries Daily Thread Thrift Store and Emergency Food Pantry to stabilize and successfully move into his new apartment.

Wiscott comments that she sees people who have had bad things happen but just need to see that somebody has faith in them, adding about Newton, “He smiles a lot now.”

Haven Ministries with the support of its executive board, church coalition, staff, business owners, community agencies, and dedicated volunteers is currently planning a long-term housing program to be located in the Kent Island area.  This long-term program will be funded by private donations made directly to Haven Ministries and enable the organization to offer year-round services in a consistent stable environment for those experiencing housing insecurities. The program, structured similar to that of a landlord-tenant relationship, will include a process for individuals and families to apply for the program, pass a background check, and agree to work with a case manager to transition into permanent housing. The goal of the Housing Assistance Program is to offer comprehensive resources including education, job training, and employment opportunities to give individuals and families the opportunity to stabilize, build up their resources, and successfully move on to safe and affordable housing.

For further information about Haven Ministries call 410-739-4363 or visit haven-ministries.org.

Love shapes the ministry, love transforms people, and hope prevails at Haven Ministries.  Haven Ministries operates a seasonal Homeless Shelter located at the Kent Island United Methodist Church in Stevensville, a Resource Center at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Centreville, the Haven Ministries Food Pantries at Safe Harbor Presbyterian Church in Stevensville and Centreville United Methodist Church in Centreville, Our Daily Thread Thrift Store in Stevensville and Hope Warehouse in Queenstown.

Pictured left to right are Sandi Wiscott, Director of Operations and Case Management, Haven Ministries, with client Edward Junior Newton. Newton used the resources through Haven Ministries Emergency Winter Shelter, Daily Thread Thrift Store, and Emergency Food Pantry to stabilize and successfully move on to safe and affordable housing on the Mid Shore.

Haven Ministries Transforms Lives

For the past 15 years, Haven Ministries on Kent Island has been impacting the lives of the poor in Queen Anne’s County. As a faith-based nonprofit, the organization offers quality programs that address housing, hunger, and clothing.  For the last fourteen years, Haven Ministries has operated a seasonal shelter at Kent Island Methodist Church for the homeless in the county. Working with local churches, government agencies and other nonprofits, it has been able to provide over 2,500 nights of safe shelter operations; served more than 720 people through its shelter services and outreach; and served more than 2,000 people per year food and clothing through (2) Food Pantries and the Thrift Store.

Krista Pettit, executive director of Haven Ministries, comments, “One of the main issues in our county is the disparity between the income that our clients can earn and the cost of housing in the area.  This is exacerbated with few affordable housing options in Queen Anne’s County. As a result, the county must deal with a growing homeless population.”

Haven Ministries participates in the Continuum of Care which is a group of service providers who meet to discuss issues of homelessness on the Eastern Shore.  All of these service providers also align to help provide the best care to the homeless population in our region.  Haven Ministries has made connections with local veteran groups to help homeless veterans receive appropriate services.  Krista explains that Haven Ministries is the only homeless shelter that serves men, women, children in the entirety of Queen Anne’s County. She adds, “We are filling a need that has not been met prior to opening a shelter nine years ago.” 

For Ross, a veteran who was a client with Haven Ministries five years ago, the shelter was a lifesaver. As an Army veteran, he was battling some issues and ended up homeless while visiting family in Grasonville during the winter months. He comments, “They helped me get on the right path.”

In addition to just offering a “roof over your head,” Haven Ministries Shelter helps its clients by assigning them to a Case Manager who works with them to connect to county resources for jobs, housing, medical services, and transportation. While staying in the Haven Ministries Shelter, Ross needed a variety of services. His case worker helped connect him to resources that could address his dental and eye issues, as well as his overall health problems. After connecting him to the Cambridge VA Outpatient Clinic, he was able to get help at Perry Point VA Health System. Ross recalls, “After the shelter closed in April, I was then able to transfer to a year-round shelter in Delaware which was close to my medical services at Perry Point. I stayed for at that shelter for two years.”

During this time, Ross was able to get his disability status and eventually a rent-assisted apartment in Cecil County. He has lived independently there now for three years.

Ross adds, “I am in a lot better place than I was.  The Shelter offers a lot of help to a lot of people. I met some nice people while I was there. They were like family to me.”

Krista comments, “We align with area churches, nonprofits, and county programs to provide resources to the homeless.”

Among the faith organizations providing volunteers for Haven Ministries are Calvary United Methodist Church, Centreville United Methodist Church, Christ Episcopal Church, Community Baptist Church of Barclay, First Baptist Church, Island Alliance Church, Kent Island United Methodist Church, Safe Harbor Presbyterian Church, Wye Parish, St. Christopher’s Catholic Church, St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Sudlersville United Methodist Church, NEW United Methodist Church, Wye Bible Church, and Wye of Carmichael United Methodist Church.

The Reverend Mark S. Delcuze, Rector of Christ Church Parish, Kent Island, comments, “This is the most ecumenical program I do on the Island. We are all pushing for the same goal – to care for people. When I look out into the room during our meetings, I am reminded of the number of faith groups gathered around the single purpose of helping our neighbors. Haven Ministries is not an institution – it is a group of faith communities allied by a common goal.”

In addition to its Shelter, Haven Ministries offers a Food Pantry with staples like canned fruits and vegetables, as well as poultry and ham, drinks and even freeze pops for the kids. The Food Pantry, located at the gymnasium at Safe Harbor Presbyterian Church, also receives fresh fruits and vegetables seasonally from area farmers. Haven Ministries Thrift Shop, located on Thompson Creek Road near Cracker Barrel in Stevensville offers household items, like sheets and towels, and clothing. Krista comments, “We desire the continuing support of the community through volunteering at the Thrift Shop, Food Pantry, Shelter, and through financial donations.  We also rely on supporters to communicate the correct information about Haven Ministries to others.”

With the growing need for a permanent shelter in Queen Anne’s County, the shelter plans to build a new shelter, located at 325 State Street, the same place the Haven Ministries transitional housing program has operated for over three years. The shelter’s new permanent location will be convenient to its clientele, who benefit most from being close to the schools, park, library medical and senior services and employment opportunities on Kent Island. The new facility will be approximately 6,900 square feet. Completion of the new facility will allow the transitional housing program to operate year round while increasing its services and amenities. These amenities include computer areas, a meeting room for classes and counseling, a children’s playroom, a commercial kitchen, a laundry room and elevators.

Pictured are workers at Haven Ministries Shelter at Kent Island Methodist Church. For the past 11 years, Haven Ministries on Kent Island has been impacting the lives of the poor in Queen Anne’s County. As a faith-based nonprofit, the organization offers quality programs that address housing, hunger, and clothing. 

Haven Ministries Golf Tournament 2019: Putting a Roof Over Homelessness

Haven Ministries Golf Tournament 2019: Putting a Roof Over Homelessness

Haven Ministries will again host its 3rd Annual Haven Ministries Golf Tournament on Friday, September 20, 2019, at Prospect Bay Country Club. The event benefits Haven Ministries housing assistance programs, including its Emergency Winter Shelter located at Kent Island United Methodist Church from October through April; its Street Outreach to respond to individuals and families experiencing a housing crisis; and its Resource Center, located in the basement of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church that is open to the public. Funds are often used to assist with housing situations in order to avoid the risk of homelessness. For five years, Haven Ministries has been focusing efforts in the Kent Island area in order to operate a housing assistance program there. 

The scenic Prospect Bay golf course is located at 311 Prospect Bay Drive West, in Grasonville, MD. Check-in begins at 8 a.m. and Shotgun Start at 9 a.m. It will be Captain’s Choice format. The price per player is $125 and includes Green Fees, Cart, Range Balls, Continental Breakfast, Complimentary Beverages on the Course, Lunch in the Clubhouse, and Prizes. Prizes will be awarded for the following categories: Top 3 Teams, Longest Drive Men & Women, Closest to the Pin Men & Women, Special Hole-in-one Contest, Door Prizes, 50/50 Drawing and more.

The Haven Advantage Package is valued at $10 per golfer and includes: 1 Mulligan, 1 Move up to Forward Tee and 1 Hand Toss a.k.a. “Hand Wedge.” Extra Mulligans are available for $5 each per player.

The premier event sponsors include Construction Services and Supply, the Roof Center, the American Legion Post 278 with support from VFW, Reedy Electrical, and Delmarva Power – an Exelon Company.

Haven Ministries Business Partners supporting the event include the following:

Diamond Level: Island Furniture Studio, Increte, and BAAR; Sapphire Level: Bay Times, Wye Conference Center, What’s Up Media, and PNC Bank;

Platinum Level: The Roof Center, Safe at Home Senior Care, Construction Services and Supply, and Prospect Bay: Gold Level: Harris Crab House, Riley Custom Homes, Swan Cove Salon, The Narrows, Tri Gas & Oil, Waterman Realty, Homeland Title & Escrow, Hemingway’s Restaurant, Range and Reef, and The Shore Update;

Silver Level: Chesapeake Hearing Centers, Holiday Inn Express, Island Dental Studio, Island Flooring, Lundberg Builders, McCrone, Miltec, Realty Navigator, Shore United Bank, U.S. Health Care, Rotary Kent Island, KRM Development, Kari Anderson for Oceans Lending, Serr.Biz LLC, Rodan & Fields- Salisbury, and Shore Sign;

Bronze Level: Blue Heron Catering, Chesapeake Chef Services, Chesa Del Crier, Capriotti’s -Chester, Joseph w. McCartin Insurance, Computer Island, Island Athletic, Legal Shield, Maid Healthy, Rodan & Fields, Cari Healy Hair,  Chesapeake Think Tank, Linda Prochaska, Bob Gosselin Photography, Bella Rose Medi, Visiting Angels, Jenny Spencer -Mary Kay, Barbara Martin, KI Minuteman Press, Kentmorr Restaurant, First Home Mortgage, and The Winery.                                                              

Sponsorship opportunities are still available. Contact Taryn Chase at 410-490-0925. For further information or to register for the tournament, visit haven-ministries.org.

Love shapes the ministry, love transforms people, and hope prevails at Haven Ministries.  Haven Ministries operates a seasonal Homeless Shelter located at the Kent Island United Methodist Church in Stevensville, a Resource Center at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Centreville, the Haven Ministries Food Pantries at Safe Harbor Presbyterian Church in Stevensville and Centreville United Methodist Church in Centreville, Our Daily Thread Thrift Store in Stevensville and Hope Warehouse in Queenstown.

Haven Ministries Kicks Off #FoundHope Campaign with Hope Rocks

Haven Ministries Kicks Off #FoundHope Campaign with Hope Rocks

Do you need an idea about what to do with your children to pass away the lazy days of summer? Just like the modern-day treasure hunt, “geocaching,” that was popular a few years ago, there is a new activity being sponsored by Haven Ministries that families can do this summer while also spreading hope in Queen Anne’s County.

With the help of Queen Anne’s County residents and Kent Island Rocks, Haven Ministries is expanding their #FoundHope Campaign to include “hope rocks” to raise awareness about their ministries in Queen Anne’s County. In the month of June, Haven Ministries Hope Warehouse shoppers and volunteers, along with Kent Island Rocks, the Grasonville Senior Center, and Centreville United Methodist Church Vacation Bible School, painted hundreds of rocks with messages of hope which are hidden throughout the county to be discovered by the public this summer. From July 1 through July 31, anyone who finds one of the painted rocks can photograph it with a cell phone and post it on Haven Ministries Facebook page: havenministriesshelter with #foundhope and the location where they found it. People can also bring the photo of the rock they found to Hope Warehouse in Queenstown for a prize. Finders should then re-hide the painted rock for others to find it. Hope Warehouse is open Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

According to Susan Phillips, Manager of Hope Warehouse, “Hope is what Haven Ministries provides. It’s great for the community to come to share their hope through this campaign.”

Karla Horton, owner of Dragonfly Paddle and Fitness in Stevensville and founder of Kent Island Rocks, started painting “kindness rocks” three years ago. The project initially was as a kid’s project but grew as adults enjoyed painting the rocks as well. The rocks had encouraging messages on them. Once people found the rocks, they could either keep them for encouragement or hide them again for someone else to find. Horton has joined forces with Haven Ministries to help with its campaign.

Horton comments, “Haven Ministries does a ton of good work in the community and is one of the few groups serving people who are homeless in the county. It is great to partner with them on this project.”

According to Horton, the Grasonville Senior Center, which supports several social projects in Queen Anne’s County, was excited to also help with the project and clients painted nearly 100 rocks for the campaign.

For further information on the #FoundHope Campaign or Haven Ministries, call 410-739-4363 or visit Haven-minsitries.org or the Facebook page: havenministriesshelter.

Love shapes the ministry, love transforms people, and hope prevails at Haven Ministries.  Haven Ministries operates a seasonal Homeless Shelter located at the Kent Island United Methodist Church in Stevensville, a Resource Center at St. Pauls Episcopal Church in Centreville, the Haven Ministries Food Pantries at Safe Harbor Presbyterian Church in Stevensville and Centreville United Methodist Church in Centreville, Our Daily Thread Thrift Store in Stevensville and Hope Warehouse in Queenstown.


Pictured are rocks that were painted at Haven Ministries Hope Warehouse for its #FoundHope Campaign. During the month of July, hundreds of “hope rocks” with messages of hope have been hidden throughout Queen Anne’s County to be discovered by the public.

Haven Ministries Helps Food Pantry Customers Make the Most of their Food Decisions

Haven Ministries Helps Food Pantry Customers Make the Most of their Food Decisions

Haven Ministries is working with the University of Maryland Extension office in Centreville to help area residents, currently utilizing food pantries at Centreville United Methodist Church to make the most of their food decisions. They hope to expand the program in the future to their food pantry at Safe Harbor Presbyterian Church in Stevensville.

The program evolved after Centreville United Methodist Church (UMC) formed a Food Nutrition Education Committee (Food NET) which included its parishioners and interested volunteers from other churches in the community who wanted to focus on healthy eating. The team decided to partner with the University of Maryland Extension’s Food Supplement Nutrition Education Program. The program’s goal is to influence the health knowledge and behaviors of low-income Marylanders through nutrition education.   

Ashley Guenard, Mid-Shore Project Leader and Educator of the Food Supplement Nutrition Education Program and a nutrition educator volunteered to come up with healthy recipes for every season which are shared with Centreville United Methodist Church’s daytime food pantry, as well as with Haven Ministries Food Pantry, offered every third Friday night of the month at Centreville UMC. The group hopes to expand the program to Haven Ministries Food Pantry at Safe Harbor Presbyterian Church in Stevensville in the future.

At the Food Pantries at Centreville UMC, customers can taste recipes made from the fresh produce provided by the Maryland Food Bank, which provides nearly 6000 pounds of food a month for each location. Customers also get a bag of the ingredients to make the recipe and small kitchen gadgets to help in the preparation of the recipe with each monthly visit.

According to volunteer April Sharp, a member of Centreville UMC, who is helping with the program, “We have gotten people to try new foods they have never eaten before. We have also gotten feedback from our regular customers about how much they have enjoyed tasting and trying recipes at home and how they look forward to getting new recipes each month.”

She adds, “It’s a fresh way to present new food options for people in need.”

According to Krista Pettit, executive director of Haven Ministries, an average of 130 people on average participate at both food pantry locations.  The food pantries hope to expand their offerings in the coming months.

Sharon Lippert, a longtime volunteer at Safe Harbor Presbyterian Church Food Pantry, “We work as a team to make it happen. The participants get two week’s worth of groceries once a month. We have young families through the elderly living on Social Security who use the Food Pantry.  We enjoy getting to know the people who come and it really is a great ministry for us.”

Volunteers are critical to the operation of both Haven Ministries’ Food Pantries. According to Karen Bardwell, Volunteer Coordinator for Haven Ministries, “We utilize volunteers at both locations to sort and pack the produce from the Maryland Food Bank and to organize the food displayed. Volunteers also help customers get their groceries to their cars, as many are elderly or disabled.”

Volunteers can be individuals or organizations. In the past, volunteers have included middle and high school students, the Boy and Girl Scouts, and church youth groups. Anyone who would like to volunteer for either food pantry, can sign up online at Haven-minsitries.org under the tab “Other Ways We Help” – “Food Pantries” or call Volunteer Coordinator Karen Bardwell at 410-490-3173.  Food donations to Haven Ministries Food Pantries are also accepted at churches on Kent Island and at the Kent Island Library, as well as at Centreville United Methodist Church.

Haven Ministries Food Pantries are offered the third Friday of each month (except in November due to the Thanksgiving Programs) from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at Safe Harbor Presbyterian Church (931 Love Point Road, Stevensville) for Kent Island and surrounding area residents and Centreville United Methodist Church (608 Church Hill Road, Centreville) for North County residents. The daytime Food Pantry at Centreville United Methodist Church is held on the first Wednesday of every month from 10 a.m. to 12 noon. For further information about the Food Pantries, call 410-739-4363 or visit Haven-minsitries.org Haven-minsitries.org.

Love shapes the ministry, love transforms people, and hope prevails at Haven Ministries.  Haven Ministries operates a seasonal Homeless Shelter located at the Kent Island United Methodist Church in Stevensville, a Resource Center at St. Pauls Episcopal Church in Centreville, the Haven Ministries Food Pantries at Safe Harbor Presbyterian Church in Stevensville and Centreville United Methodist Church in Centreville, Our Daily Thread Thrift Store in Stevensville and Hope Warehouse in Queenstown.


Haven Ministries is working with the University of Maryland Extension office in Centreville to help area residents, currently utilizing food pantries at Centreville United Methodist Church to make the most of their food decisions.

Pictured left to right are June Thomas, Ashley Guenard, Mid-Shore Project Leader and Educator of the Food Supplement Nutrition Education (FSNE) Program with the University of Maryland Extension office in Centreville; Peggy Fleisher, and Lorien MacAuley, Healthy Food Systems Evaluation Specialist for FSNE.

Haven Ministries Challenges Communities to Participate in Photos of Hope Campaign

Haven Ministries Challenges Communities to Participate in Photos of Hope Campaign

Have you observed hope amidst the bad news being broadcast in your community? Haven Ministries believes there are acts of hope around us every day if we just pay attention. The organization is running a social media campaign starting the week of April 29 until June 1, 2019 that will challenge people to take photos of hope in their communities – groups of people helping others, individuals with objects of hope (like spring flowers or baby animals), or even a sunrise or sunset. The only rule is that the sign “HOPE is found here” should appear in the photo. Haven Ministries is asking people to then post the photo on social media – Facebook and Instagram:  #foundhope and tag @havenministriesshelter.  Participants are asked to then give their signs to others to find hope in their communities, post/ share it, and pass it on to someone else to do the same.

Haven Ministries is distributing signs through its Thrift Store and the Warehouse.  People can also download the sign from Haven Ministries website haven-ministries.org.

Love shapes the ministry, love transforms people, and hope prevails at Haven Ministries.  Haven Ministries operates a seasonal Homeless Shelter located at the Kent Island United Methodist Church in Stevensville, a Resource Center at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Centreville, the Haven Ministries Food Pantries at Safe Harbor Presbyterian Church in Stevensville and Centreville United Methodist Church in Centreville, Our Daily Thread Thrift Store in Stevensville and Hope Warehouse in Queenstown.

For further information about Haven Ministries, visit haven-ministries.org or call 410-739-4363.


Haven Ministries is running a social media campaign starting the week of April 29 until June 1, 2019 that will challenge people to take photos of hope in their communities such as these and post to social media, passing on the challenge to others to do the same.

“#foundhope in the Haven Ministries Food Pantry!”
“#foundhope in the signs of spring – warm weather is here!”

Haven Ministries 2nd Annual Best Girlfriends Weekend Supports Shelter Staff and Case Managers

With winter upon us and frigid temperatures, Haven Ministries’ Shelter at Kent Island United Methodist Church in Stevensville, Maryland is at its capacity. Since opening in October, the shelter has helped 25 residents, including 10 children. Because of this status, many families from Queen Anne’s County remain on a waiting list for the shelter.

According to Krista Pettit, Executive Director of Haven Ministries, shelter staff and case managers work tirelessly with clients to quickly move clients in the shelter into safe and affordable housing. She explains the process stating, “Our staff works each day to find clients training, jobs, medical services, and eventually housing. Without their dedication, we would not be able to offer our clients hope through the provision of the basic needs of shelter, clothing, food, and other resources.”

Pam Boyce, a Shelter Assistant at night, who has been with the Shelter for 13 years, reflects, “I love helping people – it’s a calling. We make sure everyone has what they need and a place to go during the day after they leave us. We pack lunches and get breakfast together on the night shift.”

She adds, “Our case managers go above and beyond just the shelter needs – they help with insurance, medical needs, and jobs.”

To help fund  shelter staff and case managers at Haven Ministries, the organization hosts an annual event, Best Girlfriends Weekend. This year’s Second Annual Best Girlfriends Weekend is being held on February 22-24, 2019 at the beautiful Wye Conference Center Houghton House and River House.

According to Taryn Chase, Haven Ministries’ new Business and Marketing Development Director, “The property includes Five-Star rated rooms and delicious meals prepared on the property, as well as an incredible weekend filled with your best friends, new friends, positivity and a complete rejuvenation of you!”

Last year’s weekend was filled with women empowerment discussions, jewelry making, shopping, tastings from local restaurants, a Saturday Business Expo with a variety of vendors, a fashion show, and an evening dance party with DJ Cori. The weekend kicked off with a Friday Movie Night, complete with candy, popcorn and treats.

Chase adds, “Island Furniture Studio hosted a Hospitality Suite for the weekend where guests made new friendships that have only grown stronger during this past year. Since it was such an amazing event, Island Furniture Studio is a Premier Sponsor for this year’s event. Buffy Cromwell and Denise Boggs are going above and beyond to make this year’s event memorable for attendees.” 

Lolita Watkins, Computer Island owner and Spiritual Leader for the weekend and one of Haven Ministries Business Partners, commented, “The weekend was perfect in every way, simply ‘SHEMAZING’.”

Karen Uthus, a participant in the 2018 Best Girlfriends Weekend, added, “Last year’s Best Girlfriend weekend left me rejuvenated, inspired and grateful.  I spent a wonderful weekend surrounded by amazing, positive and inspiring women.”

Tickets are on sale at Haven-ministries.org. For more information please call Taryn Chase at 410-490-0925.

Beef, Bonfires and Cigars Event Raises Awareness and Funds for Area Homelessness

The Wye River Conference Center in Queenstown was the venue for Haven Ministries 2nd Annual Beef, Bonfires & Cigars event. This year the event included the opportunity to spend a night in a gorgeous 5-star room at River House, while also enjoying lunch and breakfast, exploring the property’s gardens, bike riding, skeet shooting, and simply relaxing in one of the many libraries and open spaces of River House.  Guests were also given a tour of The Bunker located under the property’s helipad, learning historical facts and untold stories of the Houghton family and River House.

Over 250 people participated in the evening festivities, which included eating oysters, live-fire grilling, distillery tastings, sampling from local chefs and restaurants, backyard fires and s’mores, shopping and cigars. In addition, Porsche in Annapolis provided two Porsche cars to peruse, while Annapolis Boat brought a boat to tour.

The evening also included a Live Auction with a variety of items auctioned, including a stay at a North Carolina beach house, a queen-size homemade quilt, a private chef’s dinner for 10 people, BBQ for 30 people, a beautiful portrait sitting, and the opportunity to feed and shelter the guests of Haven Ministries.

The event’s Diamond Level Sponsors were Increte and BAAR/ Bay Area Association of Realtors.  Sapphire Level Sponsors were Bay Times, Wye River Conference Center, a Dolce Property, and What’s Up Media.   Platinum Level Sponsors were Safe at Home Senior Care, Prospect Bay Country Club, Roof Center, Construction. Services and Supplies, Inc., Kate Spade, and My Logo On It.  Gold Level Sponsors were Harris Crab House, Hemingway’s, The Narrows, Riley Custom Homes, Island Furniture Studios, The Shore Update, Range & Reef, Social Point Media, Swan Cove Salon & Spa, Tri Gas and Oil, and Ramsey Madison/Event Planner.  Silver Level Sponsors were Lundberg Builders, Holiday Inn Express, Chesapeake Hearing Centers, Miltec, Free State Insurance, McCrone, Realty Navigator, Hawk Marketing, Keller Williams/Chris [email protected], U.S. Healthcare/ [email protected], Shore United Bank, Island Floors, Kent Island Rotary, Details Group, Island Dental Studio, Refreshed Woman, Cargo Direct, Shore Signs, The Ophiuroidea, KRM Development, Queenstown Bank, Shaffer Ingenuity, Kari Anderson for Ocean’s Lending, Blue Heron Catering, Chesapeake Celebrations, Liz Skibbie/ Financial Advisors 443.336.2182, Chesapeake Bay Services, and Levity/Women’s clothing.

Second Annual Beef, Bonfires and Cigars Scheduled for November 3

Second Annual  Beef, Bonfires and Cigars Scheduled for November 3

 

The second annual “Beef, Bonfires and Cigars,” to benefit Haven Ministries, will be held on November 3, 2018 from 5:30 to 9 p.m. at the Aspen Institute, Wye River Conference Center, 600 Aspen Drive in Queenstown. The event will offer a night out to sample food and beverage tastings from multiple restaurants, caterers, and distilleries in the region, a fun live auction, and other festive fall activities. Food tastings will be provided by Chesapeake Chef’s Services, The Narrows, Hemingway’s, Blue Heron Catering, Harris Crab House, Range and Reef, Coopers Hawk, Chesapeake Celebrations, and Oyster Bar. The beverage tastings will be offered by Lyon’s Distillery, The Winery, and Blackwater Distillery.  There will also be live music and multiple vendors showcasing their goods, including cigars to smoke and a cash bar will be available.

Mia Cranford, Director of Marketing and Fundraising Coordinator at Haven Ministries, comments, “Last year’s event was such a success, we wanted to repeat it again this year. It is a fun event for people to just come out and have a good time.”

This year, the event is offering a limited number of rooms for weekend stays at the four Star stunning Aspen Institute, Wye River Conference Center. The cost for a two-night stay is $299 and includes two tickets to the Beef, Bonfires and Cigars event and lunch on Saturday, as well as breakfast on Sunday.

According to Krista Pettit, Executive Director of Haven Ministries, the event benefits Haven Ministries as it continues with its fundraising efforts to help sustain its important programs and to move the ministry forward in purchasing property for a housing assistance program.

Haven Ministries Business Partners supporting the event include the following:

Diamond Level:  Increte and BAAR (Bay Area Association of Realtors)

Sapphire Level: Bay Times, Wye River Conference Center, A Dolce Property, and What’s Up Media.

Platinum Level: Safe at Home Senior Care, Prospect Bay Country Club, Roof Center, Construction Services and Supplies, Inc., Kate Spade, and My Logo On It.

Gold Level: Harris Crab House, Hemingway’s, The Narrows, Riley Custom Homes, Island Furniture Studios, The Shore Update, Range and Reef, Swan Cove Salon and Spa, and Tri Gas and Oil.

Silver Level: Lundberg Builders, Salon Atelier, Holiday Inn Express, Chesapeake Hearing Centers, Miltec, Free State Insurance, McCrone, Realty Navigator, Hawk Marketing, Keller Williams/[email protected], U.S. Health Care/[email protected], Shore United Bank, Island Floors, Kent Island Rotary, Details Group, Island Dental Studio, Refreshed Women, Cargo Direct, Shore Signs, The Ophiuroidea, KRM Development, Queenstown Bank, and Shaffer Ingenuity.

Bronze Level: Mary Kay/ Corbie Haas, Edward Jones/William Caughey, Splendid Consignment Shop/Avon, Legalshield/Joe Allegretti, Computer Island/Lolita Watkins, The Winery, Federal Resources, The Growth Coach, 1st Home Mortgage/[email protected], Comhar Helen Fitzgerald [email protected], Premier Designs/Jenny Spencer, doTERRA/[email protected], doTERRA Wellness Advocate/[email protected], Sara Taylor Coaching, Maid Healthy, Rodan and Fields, Cari Healy Hair, Carrie’s Cupcakery, Chesapeake Think Tank, Kent Island Minuteman Press, Linda Prochaska, and Bob Gosselin Photography.

Tickets to “Beef, Bonfires and Cigars” cost $50 per person and are available at haven-ministries.org.

Golf Tournament 2018: Putting a Roof Over Homelessness

Golf 2018 Facebook Event

Haven Ministries hosted its 2nd Annual Haven Ministries Golf Tournament on September 21, 2018 at Prospect Bay Country Club. The sold-out event will net over $10,000 to benefit all of the Haven Ministries programs.

Janet Crutchley and Denise Klotzbucher were the Event Chairwomen for the event for the second year in a row. Employees of Lyon’s Distillery, Edward Jones/Liz Skibbie and The Ophiuroidea of St. Michaels were on Hole 12 giving out treats and taking the “Hole in One” picture of golfers.  Hole 12 was sponsored by Cranford Contractors, Inc. which provided a chance for golfers to win $5000 for a hole in one.

Gold Level sponsors

Construction Services and Supplies, Beacon Roofing, and My Logo On It. Event sponsors included the American Legion Post 278 Kent Island, VFW Post 7464 Grasonville, MD, and Reedy Electric Services.

Haven Ministries Business Partners supporting the event include the following:

Diamond Level

Increte and BAAR (Bay Area Association of Realtors)

Sapphire Level

Bay Times, Wye River Conference Center, A Dolce Property, and What’s Up Media.

Platinum Level

Safe at Home Senior Care, Prospect Bay Country Club, Roof Center, Construction Services and Supplies, Inc., Kate Spade, and My Logo On It.

Gold Level

Harris Crab House, Hemingways, The Narrows, Riley Custom Homes, Island Furniture Studios, The Shore Update, Range and Reef, Swan Cove Salon and Spa, and Tri Gas and Oil.

Silver Level

Lundberg Builders, Salon Atelier, Holiday Inn Express, Chesapeake Hearing Centers, Miltec, Free State Insurance, McCrone, Realty Navigator, Hawk Marketing, Keller Williams/[email protected], U.S. Health Care/[email protected], Shore United Bank, Island Floors, Kent Island Rotary, Details Group, Island Dental Studio, Refreshed Women, Cargo Direct, Shore Signs, The Ophiuroidea, KRM Development, Queenstown Bank, and Shaffer Ingenuity.

Bronze Level

Mary Kay/ Corbie Haas, Edward Jones/William Caughey, Splendid Consignment Shop/Avon, Legalshield/Joe Allegretti, Computer Island/Lolita Watkins, The Winery, Federal Resources, The Growth Coach, 1st Home Mortgage/[email protected], Comhar Helen Fitzgerald [email protected], Premier Designs/Jenny Spencer, doTERRA/[email protected], doTERRA Wellness Advocate/[email protected], Sara Taylor Coaching, Maid Healthy, Rodan and Fields, Cari Healy Hair, Carrie’s Cupcakery, Chesapeake Think Tank, Kent Island Minuteman Press, Linda Prochaska, and Bob Gosselin Photography.

 

Art For Your Home Program

Art For Your Home Program

Art For Your Home Program featured image

Pictured is Phil Stapleton, a volunteer with Haven Ministries, with artwork being offered in Haven Ministries “Art For Your Home” Program at Hope Warehouse. The organization is providing free framed original artwork to its clients moving into permanent housing.

Art For Your Home Program

Haven Ministries is going one step farther in providing quality services to make housing homier for residents of Queen Anne’s County.  In a new program called “Art For Your Home,” the organization is providing free framed original artwork to its clients moving from homeless status to permanent housing.

The idea originated with Phil Stapleton, a volunteer with Haven Ministries who is coordinating the program.  He recalls, “Our residents finally scrape together money to get into permanent housing, but usually don’t have things on the wall that makes it look like a home. I saw a program like this happening in Arlington, VA, and thought we could do it in Queen Anne’s County.”

The artwork, which is donated by local artists, including artists from the Kent Island Federation of Art, includes photography, watercolors, paintings, and other two-dimensional work. Stapleton adds, “What struck me after talking with several artists, is that these artists have extra artwork they are more than willing to donate to this cause.”

Several pieces of artwork are on display at Haven Ministries Resource Center and Hope Warehouse, as well as in the Queen Anne’s County Department of Housing and Community Services.  Hope Warehouse will be the central location where residents can go to select artwork for their homes, but artwork will also be made available for the program at two upcoming events.

Local artist John Sharp of Centreville and friends are participating in an art exhibit to benefit Haven Ministries and highlight the Art For Your Home Program.  On Saturday, October 6 from 7 to 9 p.m., Sharp will be the featured artist in the opening of the art exhibit at Queen Anne’s County Centre for the Arts at 206 S. Commerce Street in Centreville. The art exhibit will be open about a month.

Sharp comments, “Everyone should be able to enjoy art.  That simple pleasure, perhaps evoking an emotion or a memory, should be available to all.  I believe the Art For Your Home Program is a great way to afford that opportunity to folks, who, at the moment have more pressing needs.  I am very appreciative to have Haven Ministries at our show and certainly hope that some of the artwork will brighten someone’s day.”

According to Michael Bell, Art Supervisor with Queen Anne’s County Public Schools, students in Queen Anne’s County will be creating artwork for the program, working with the Queen Anne’s County Centre for the Arts for a showing of the student-produced artwork in the spring and gaining service learning hours for their participation.

The Grand Opening of Haven Ministries Hope Warehouse will be held on October 4 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Hope Warehouse is located behind the Queenstown Outlets at 6537 Friel’s Road in Queenstown.

For further information about the Art For Your Home Program, contact Phil Stapleton at 410-827-7232. For information about the Hope Warehouse, contact Susan Phillips at [email protected] or call 410-490-8498, or visit haven-ministries.org.

Taking Care of the Shore’s Neighbors: It Just Takes a Heart

Taking Care of the Shore’s Neighbors: It Just Takes a Heart

Love shapes the ministry, love transforms people, and hope prevails at Haven Ministries.  Haven Ministries, a non-profit, faith-based organization is comprised of 14 local churches committed to making a difference, and providing hope through shelter, clothing, and food.  The organization operates on the premise of showing God’s love to the poor within the community by providing essential services.

Central to the organization’s mission is its seasonal Homeless Shelter located at the Kent Island United Methodist Church in Stevensville, open October through April for residents of Queen Anne’s County. The emergency, winter homeless shelter is open to men, women, and children.  Services include meals, clothing, case management services, and other life necessities. Haven Ministries served 27 guests at its designated space at Kent Island United Methodist Church at 2739 Cox Neck Road in Chester last season.

Shelter sleeping

The Shelter was full or near capacity for much of the season last year and had occasion to turn away individuals due to full capacity conditions.  The organization has identified the need for a more permanent affordable Housing Assistance Program and has a short-term goal to find a home or property for its Housing Assistance Program, with a longer-term goal of acquiring or purchasing a home to accommodate its guests.  Krista Pettit, Executive Director of Haven Ministries comments, “The next step for many of our guests is for more long-term housing, until more permanent housing becomes available for them.”

Haven Ministries Resource Center, located at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Centreville, Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. is often the first stop for those in need in Queen Anne’s County. Assistance is offered here in the way of financial counseling, job training, and wellness, as well as limited pastoral counseling and enrichment classes. The Resource Center’s classes are meeting the growing needs of the community, including everything from budget and financial workshops to empowerment workshops for recovering addicts. Financial support for these services is made possible from contributions from area churches to Haven Ministries Church Fund. According to Pettit, “There is something for everyone. We are also trying to connect with community organizations that might want to bring their clients to benefit from some of our classes, including recovery groups, social services organizations, health departments, schools and nonprofits.”

Other services offered by Haven Ministries include The Haven Ministries Food Pantries which are held on the third Friday monthly at Safe Harbor Presbyterian Church in Stevensville and at a second location at Centreville United Methodist Church at 608 Church Hill Road in Centreville from 5:30 to 7 p.m. The Pantries partner with the Maryland Food bank to provide a variety of healthy food choices every month.

Haven Ministries Our Daily Thread Thrift Store is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Safe Harbor Presbyterian Church in Stevensville, offering clothing and household goods at deeply discounted prices.

Haven Ministries has just opened a new warehouse, Hope Warehouse, offering used appliances, furniture and building supplies for purchase in Queenstown. The sales of items at a reduced cost to the public will support Haven Ministries other ministries in the community, including its street outreach. Hope Warehouse also provides a Retail Training Program that complements its Resource Center in Centreville, helping with job training and placement in the community for individuals trying to get back on their feet in the community. Hope Warehouse is open Thursday through Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Haven Ministries utilizes over 200 volunteers working, in a variety of roles, including the Homeless Shelter, Food Pantries, Thrift Store, Warehouse, and Resource Center.  Volunteers also help with Haven Ministries annual fundraisers like benefit concerts, Women’s Weekend, Tea, Girlfriend’s Weekend, Run 4 Shelter, Golf Tournament, and Wine and Windows events.  Haven Ministries Volunteer Coordinator Karen Bardwell coordinates and trains the volunteers. She also works with church coordinators from participating area churches seven days a week from October through April each year to staff each day’s Homeless Shelter schedule.

Pettit concludes, “Because of the financial contribution, time commitment, and donation of goods and services by members of our community, countless men, women, and children have received shelter, connections to jobs and skills training, transportation to important appointments, clothing for family members, street outreach services, and nourishment through food and spiritual care. God has been faithful through our efforts as we now have over 100 Friends and over 60 business partners. We hope in the coming year to move our ministry forward as we diligently seek to purchase property for a housing assistance program.  I am confident that HOPE will continue to prevail in our community.”

Best Girlfriends Weekend Raises Money

Best Girlfriends Weekend Raises Money

Best Girlfriend Weekend workshop

Best Girlfriends Weekend Raises Money

Haven Ministries Best Girlfriend’s Weekend Raises Money to Feed, Clothe, and Shelter the Homeless

When Haven Ministries imagined a weekend for women to get away with their girlfriends to do their favorite things, they never envisioned the support they would receive from community and participants in making it a memorable weekend while raising significant money to help with the issue of homelessness on the Mid Shore. Over 50 women from the Mid Shore, Anne Arundel County, Howard County, DE, and PA attended the overnight stay, while an additional 30 women opted for the daytime experience held at the Aspen Institute Wye River Conference Center, A Dolce Property.

Liz Skibbie and Taryn Chase served as Co-Chairs of the event. Mia Cranford, Director of Marketing for Haven Ministries, comments, “Our event was conceived on the notion that people are tired of the same old event and woman love to get away their girlfriends. So, we took the idea of what our favorite things were about getting away with our ‘besties’ and combined them into one fun-filled weekend.”

Aspen Institute Wye River Conference Center, A Dolce Property offered the ideal location for the weekend getaway offering luxurious rooms and phenomenal food, even donating breakfast and appetizers each day. Cranford adds, “Aspen Institute really catered to all our needs.”

In addition to spa treatments, participants were treated to a Chick Flick Movie Night with Pizza, a hospitality suite hosted by Island Furniture Studios, informative seminars on forgiveness and empowerment, as well as nutrition, technology, home decorating, and jewelry making, as well as awesome music and yoga. A fashion show featured clothing by Levity of Easton, Ophiuroidea “The O” of St. Michaels, and Splendid Consignment Shop of Chester. A complete makeover and reveal was provided by Salon Atelier of Chester. Levity gave each participant a necklace or bracelet and all attendees received gift bags in their rooms with goodies from Chesapeake Environmental Labs and Sullivan’s Surgery and Spa.

Cranford states, “Women came with their best friends, but the beauty was they left with so many more friends.”

Participant, Lana Dobritchanin, commented, “Even though I am in Florida next winter, I am getting my flight now because I am not going to miss next year’s weekend for anything.”

Event Co-Chair Taryn Chase adds, “The overall goal was to support Haven Ministries – which feeds, clothes, and shelters the homeless on the Mid Shore. This event proved that you can bring an awareness to the issue like homelessness in a fun way.”

Krista Pettit, Director of Haven Ministries, adds, “People don’t realize how many people are homeless and how close we are all living to being there ourselves when certain circumstances happen in our lives. We were able to talk about the issue with women to inform them about our long-range goals and encourage them to be a part of the solution for the next generation.”

Next year’s Best Girlfriend’s Weekend will be held on February 22 through 24, 2019 at Aspen Institute Wye River Conference Center, A Dolce Property. There is a limit of 49 double rooms, so participants are encouraged to make their reservations early.

A number of businesses supported the event, including Diamond Level sponsors were Increte and BAAR (Bay Area Association of Realtors). Sapphire Level Sponsors were the Bay Times and Wye River Conference Center, A Dolce Property. Platinum Level Sponsors were Safe at Home Senior Care, Prospect Bay Country Club, Roof Center, Construction Services and Supplies, Inc., and Kate Spade. Gold Level Sponsors were Bayview Portraits by Cindy Sigmon, Harris Crab House, Hemingways, ArtCademy, The Narrows, Riley Construction, Island Furniture Studios, The Shore Update, and Range and Reef. Silver Level Sponsors were Lundburg Builders, Salon Atelier, Maid Healthy, Holiday Inn Express, Chesapeake Hearing Centers, Miltec, Free State Insurance, McCrone, Realty Navigator, Hawk Marketing, Timeleigh Solutions, Keller Williams/[email protected], and USHealthGroup/[email protected]. Bronze Level Sponsors include Trades of Hope/Holly Gorham, Mary Kay/Corbie Haas, Edward Jones/William Caughey, Splendid Consignment Shop/Avon, Legal Shield/Joe Allegretti, Honey and Lace/Natalie’s Honey Hut, Computer Island/Lolita Watkins, Strong Mom Fitness, The Winery, Federal Resources, The Growth Coach, Shaffer Ingenuity, Island Athletics, 1st Home Mortgage, and Global Home Protection. Business partners and food vendors included Range and Beef, Smoke Rattle and Roll, Blue Heron Catering, Krave Catering, Steward Catering, The Narrows Restaurant, The Winery, Lyon’s Distillery, Capriotti’s, D’Alessio’s Pizza, Rise Up Coffee, Cori Coates, IroC Social Media.

Love shapes the ministry, love transforms people, and hope prevails at Haven Ministries. Haven Ministries operates a Resource Center at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Centreville, Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. with job training, educational programming, and case management services. The Haven Ministries Food Pantry is held on the third Friday monthly at Safe Harbor Presbyterian Church in Stevensville from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Our Daily Thread Thrift Store is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For further information about Haven Ministries, visit haven-ministries.org or call 410-739-4363.

Back row, left to right, are Best Girlfriend’s Weekend participants Lolita Justice Walker, Colleen Thomas, Lana Dobritchanin, and Mia Cranford, Director of Marketing for Haven Ministries. Pictured front row, left to right, are Sarah Whitby, Pamela Watkins, and Bohdanna Gott. (Photo courtesy of Cindy Sigmon)

 

Best Girlfriend Weekend Yoga

Pictured is Barbara Olivier, Yoga Instructor with Barbara Balasana Yoga. (Photo courtesy of Bayview Portraits by Cindy Sigmon)

Best Girlfriend Weekend Rockstars

Pictured left to right are Mia Cranford, Director of Marketing for Haven Ministries, Michelle Maggio, Hawk Marketing; and Liz Skibbie and Taryn Chase, co-chairs for the event. (Photo courtesy of Bayview Portraits by Cindy Sigmon)

Best Girlfriend Weekend MaryKay

Pictured is Corbie Haas of Mary Kay Cosmetics with Rachel Acevedo (seated). (Photo courtesy of Bayview Portraits by Cindy Sigmon)

Best Girlfriend Weekend Blue Heron Catering

Susan Joy (right) and staff with Blue Heron Catering was one of the food vendors for the Best Girlfriend’s Weekend. (Photo courtesy of Bayview Portraits by Cindy Sigmon)