As part of our ongoing commitment to serve our neighbors and Jesus Christ, Anniston First United Methodist Church offers an annual $10,000 Community Mission Grant to a Calhoun County-based nonprofit organization. Each year, the Community Mission Grant will prioritize a specific area of focus that aligns with the church’s values and community priorities.
Focus Areas
2025: Housing and Homelessness
“The Son of Man has no place to lay his head.” – Matthew 8:20
In 2025, we will prioritize projects that address the urgent housing needs in our community. This includes organizations working to end homelessness, provide emergency or transitional shelter, support reentry housing, or advocate for safe and stable housing for vulnerable populations.
Examples of Eligible Projects:
- Emergency and transitional shelter operations
- Housing stabilization and tenant advocacy
- Outreach to unsheltered individuals and families
- Reentry support for formerly incarcerated individuals
- Domestic violence shelter and housing services
2026: Mental Health and Wellness
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” – Matthew 11:28
Mental health is a critical part of holistic well-being. In 2026, we will support programs that promote emotional, psychological, and spiritual health, particularly among under-resourced individuals and families.
Examples of Eligible Projects:
- Community mental health education
- Trauma recovery and grief support
- Substance use recovery services
- School-based mental health programs
- Peer support and counseling initiatives
2027: Children, Youth, and Education
“Let the little children come to me.” – Luke 18:16
Children are at the heart of our ministry. In 2027, we will focus on projects that empower young people and support their development through educational, spiritual, and enrichment opportunities.
Examples of Eligible Projects:
- Early childhood education and literacy
- Mentoring and leadership programs
- Afterschool and summer enrichment
- Food security for children and youth
- Foster care and kinship support services