Grace Depot Church in Clarksville, Tennessee, is making a significant impact in the lives of older adults in the community, thanks to a $5,000 Older Adult Community Service Grant awarded by the ENCORE Ministry Foundation. The grant has enabled the church’s Elders Network to provide essential services and Christ-centered care to seniors facing isolation, medical challenges, and emotional strain.
The network used the grant to expand its outreach and support initiatives, including transportation assistance, nursing home visits, and food delivery programs. These efforts have brought relief, independence, and emotional comfort to many older adults in Clarksville.
Expanded Transportation Support
The church established a reliable transportation system, helping seniors attend medical appointments, worship services, grocery runs, and other essential errands. Nine older adults benefited from this service, with many expressing gratitude for the restored independence it provided.
Eva, one of the recipients, shared, “I couldn’t have made this trip on my own. Your ride helped me more than you know.”
I couldn’t have made this trip on my own.
Strengthened Nursing Home Outreach
Volunteers from Grace Depot visited local nursing homes, including Dogwood Bend, where they served 27 residents. Through prayer, conversation, and care packages, the church built meaningful relationships and provided emotional and spiritual support. One resident remarked, “Your visit made my whole week. Please come back.”
Consistent Food and Care Delivery
The church expanded its food support initiative, delivering groceries, hygiene items, and essential supplies to 12 homebound seniors. This consistent care reduced anxiety for seniors struggling with food access and mobility challenges.
Clara Williams, a recipient, expressed her gratitude, saying, “These groceries mean I don’t have to worry about going hungry. It’s a blessing every week.”
Future Plans
Grace Depot Church plans to further strengthen and expand the Elders Network. Future initiatives include recruiting and training more volunteers, increasing transportation and care support, deepening partnerships with nursing homes, and launching monthly outreach and wellness check-ins. The church is also pursuing sustainable funding to ensure long-term impact.
Rev. Richmond Owusu, lead pastor of Grace Depot Church, expressed his gratitude to ENCORE Ministry Foundation, stating, “Your partnership has strengthened the growth of our ministry and allowed us to make a tangible difference in the lives of older adults. We look forward to continuing this mission and sharing more stories of transformation.”
