UUSD presents $700 donation to Immanuel Shelter

The Unitarian Universalists of Southern Delaware presented Immanuel Shelter Inc. with a check for $700 Nov. 11 to support their work to provide adequate shelter, clothing, food, and other assistance to the poor and homeless community in Sussex County. The donation was collected for Immanuel Shelter at UUSD’s Oct. 18 dedication of their new church home located at 30486 Lewes-Georgetown Highway in Lewes.

“As a religious community, we wanted to step up and help those in Sussex County who will face another cold winter without even the most basic of necessities,” said Deanna Duby, president of UUSD’s Board of Trustees. “Although we are still growing financially into our new home,” she says, “digging deep into our pockets to support Immanuel Shelter’s important work for the poor and homeless in our own community was important to us."

Janet Idema, president of the board of directors for Immanuel Shelter, says,  "The Unitarian Universalists of Southern Delaware have blessed us again this year with their generosity and commitment to help Immanuel keep those experiencing homelessness warm this winter. Funding is extremely important and the monies collected will help provide for needed supplies. The casseroles, on the other hand, are a communal representation of the love and nurturing that UUSD provides to our guests.  We are so grateful."

Don Peterson, UUSD’s Social & Environmental Justice chair, says UUSD began working with Immanuel Shelter during the winter of 2014-15 when the congregation prepared and delivered frozen casseroles to the organization. Last summer, UUSD participated in Immanuel Shelter’s “Beat the Heat’ campaign by collecting hats, water bottles, and suntan lotion.

“We live our values and put our faith in action through outreach to the community. We stand on the side of love through our work with Immanuel Shelter,” Peterson said.

The Unitarian Universalists of Southern Delaware are a vibrant and welcoming progressive spiritual community with a faith rooted in love and justice,They are dedicated to nurturing spiritual growth, embracing diversity, working for justice, and striving for a loving world. UUSD is located at 30486 Lewes-Georgetown Highway. Sunday services are held at 10 a.m. For more information, go to www.uussd.org.