Diane Taylor has never been to St. James's. But it's been a part of her life for years. 

For longer than she can remember, St. James's -- through the outreach program headed up by Nancy Warman -- has come to her aid during those times when her limited budget just doesn't go far enough. 

"St. James's has helped me tremendously for years. This church has been a blessing to me," Diane says. Diane estimates that the church helps her financially a few times a year, usually when her utility costs are out of reach.
 
"I'm not a member of St. James's," she says, "I've never even been to the church. But you have taken me under your wing. It's amazing."

Diane isn't alone. St. James's has a long history of helping individuals and families -- especially people outside of our parish -- with financial assistance. Naturally, the generosity of our outreach is determined by the generosity of our parish. As we like to say, the more givers give, the more doers can do. 

But rest assured, we're as careful with our budget as you are with your own. As Diane recalls, when she first called the church, before receiving a penny, she was put through a thorough vetting process to make sure her claims were legitimate. "I called the church and asked, 'Can you help me?' I was so grateful when the church said, 'Yes, we can.'"
 
Diane, who is a member of Grove Avenue Baptist Church, called other area churches. Some have helped occasionally, but only St. James's has consistently supported her over the years. 
 
"I had a really good relationship with Ms. Warman. We just clicked," Diane says of that first call, "She's been a blessing."
 
At this point Diane, who's been a widow for 20 years, lives by herself in the West End. She has in-home assistance a few days a week to help with chores, shopping, and whatever else she needs. 
 
The good news is, she also has us. "Ms. Warman calls me often to check on me." And with your continued support, we'll be able to help her for as long as she needs it.