Local nonprofit organization Urban Ministries offers a long list of services dedicated to meeting the needs of people living in Clarksville-Montgomery County.
Urban Ministries Grace Assistance is a United Way Agency founded in 1984 in association with Madison Street United Methodist Church. Finance Director, Rebecca Lopez, described the organization as an emergency service center.
“People come in for emergency help with their utility bills such as electricity and water. They also come in for prescription help, which a lot of people don’t know that we offer,” Lopez said. “We are helping people every single day with utilities. Our goal is to help as many people as we can to keep their utilities on because that removes the burden of the money they need to pay the rent to help keep them from becoming homeless.”
Lopez said the organization also works to help the local homeless population.
“We’ve been having more homeless families and single homeless coming in and requesting food. It’s a very big pick up,” Lopez said.
The organization also provides emergency housing when available through Safe Place and shelter for those affected by domestic abuse through Safe House.
Those in need will also find a food pantry and a clothing closet at the Urban Ministries office. Food plans are set up by Second Harvest Food Bank.
There are a number of ways to support Urban Ministries and Grace Assistance with donations. Food and clothing can be dropped off at their office at 211 3rd St. in downtown Clarksville between the hours of 8 a.m. and noon, Monday-Friday.
Monetary donations can also be taken by the office or mailed to Urban Ministries, P.O. Box 324, Clarksville, Tennessee 37040. To learn more about Grace Assistance and Urban Ministries, to make a donation or if you’re in need of help, visit www.clarksvilleurbanministries.com or call 931-648-9090.
