Central NY Conference

Hands of Hope HUB

located at First UMC Cortland  

734 Route 222
Cortland, NY 13045

Phone 607-756-5426 or 607-756-7799

Email  cortlandumc@verizon.net

HUB Coordinators - Jim and Debby Underwood

Hands of Hope HUB God Moment:

One particular day stands out when a young couple was referred to us from a local agency. They had just moved to their first apartment, and were in need of basic household supplies to get started. We were able to give them much more than they expected or had requested. The wife kept repeating that she could not believe it...we were willing to "give these things to us, and you have never met us before"...she was overwhelmed that this ministry would be so willing to help her family. Our conversation was that GOD helps people around us all the time; he loves everybody, ALL the time.

We have been very blessed to reach out into our local community to serve people just as they are - where they are.

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 It truly was a sight to be seen  here when our Hub had a free clothing giveaway on Saturday, February 14th ! GOD has opened the doors and many great things are coming forth.  We  served over 200 persons - some even came to receive and stayed to help others.  It was a Loaves and Fishes story - the more that went out the door - the more that came back in with donations.  Our food pantry also operated all day and never cleared the shelves.   To see the looks of peace and fulfillment on the their faces as they went through and filled boxes of food and clothing, house hold  items etc. was wonderful. We were able to talk with many of the folks and get a better insight at what our community is facing.  One little girl especially stole my heart, she kept her mom here for at least an hour longer because she did not want to leave.  She was about three or four.  I took her around and let her pick out some very "Special" toys and clothes she liked.....just one of the many blessings GOD gave that day! Some of the comments we heard were "I can't believe we don't have to pay for any of this...it REALLY is FREE"...."They don't want money.....and we are getting food too".  I can't really begin to express what was seen and felt here at Cortland First United Methodist....we have been asked already when the next time will be held. We believe GOD has been blessing the HUB with joy, peace and so much LOVE for our fellow brothers and sisters, and much more is to come.                                                                               (submitted by Greg Forrester and Debby Underwood)

On Sunday, February 22nd, the Cortland United Methodist Church had a Faith in Action Sunday.  In place of regularly scheduled Sunday morning worship, the congregation was divided into 4 groups to go into the community to serve others. Two  groups went to senior centers to visit and entertain Seniors, another group went to assist the fire company with any snow removal that was needed, and the fourth group gathered at the HUB to verify and pack UMCOR kits to be sent to Mission Central. These kits had come in from churches all over  NY state. The church was then re-gathering at 3 PM to share their experiences and share a meal together. What a day of being God's hands and feet in mission.