Ashland Presbyterian Church was one of seven congregations awarded a Community Engagement Grant from the Commission on Reconciliation this year, and the church is moving forward in three areas: childcare, outreach, and food.

Two local high school students were hired to provide childcare during worship. Families now have a dedicated area with activities, and children are escorted to a classroom after the children’s moment. The program, which serves 2–3 families regularly, has been well received, with parents expressing gratitude for consistent care. As the student workers step away in August, plans are underway to hire a lead and assistant childcare worker to expand the ministry and move toward offering Sunday School.

Supplies were put to good use this month as backpacks were blessed and tags were provided for students to color and customize. Hundreds were provided for back to school students, which, included pre-schoolers as well as partners in Cuba. In addition to augmenting their weekly childcare at the church, Ashland Presbyterian is partnering with local organizations for community events like tree planting and history presentations, while hosting weekly hospitality gatherings.