Christian Community Action (CCA) was founded by churches in Lincoln Parish in 1984. CCA strives to meet crisis or emergency needs in our communities. We do not attempt to duplicate the ministries of member churches but rather provide help to individuals or families in need that many churches lack the resources to undertake. Literally hundreds of families and individuals in Ruston, Grambling, Choudrant, Simsboro and Dubach are given assistance each year.
CCA has served as the central location for all churches in Lincoln Parish to refer individuals in need.
What is Christian Community Action (CCA)?
CCA is a nonprofit organization founded by churches in Lincoln Parish which strives to meet crisis or emergency needs in our communities. We do not attempt to duplicate the ministries of member churches but rather provide help to needy persons that many churches lack resources to undertake. Literally hundreds of families and individuals in the area are given emergency assistance each year by CCA. CCA has served as a central place for all churches in the parish to refer individuals in need. CCA provides food, clothing, utility assistance, fill prescriptions and other services to persons with in the parish who meet our income guidelines and others who have a crisis situation. No person will be denied services because of race, sex, religious preference, disability, or national origin; they must be in need and meet the criteria. In addition, CCA helps persons traveling who are in need of emergency lodging, food, gasoline and some transportation. When you contribute your time, talent or money to CCA you know you are helping someone directly.
Whom does CCA serve?
CCA serves persons in need, particularly those experiencing a crisis/ emergency or a transient in need. Within the limit of our resources, CCA serves the needy regardless of race, national origin, creed or religious preference. We see ourselves as providing a unique service because all services are provided for our clients at no cost to them. We refer clients to other agencies when other programs are more suitable for their need or if their need exceeds what we are able to meet. We work with other agencies in an attempt to verify the emergency before assistance is given. We want to be good stewards of the monies and donations in-kind that are given to us; therefore, we strive to truly be of service when there is a need.
Who makes up CCA?
Currently there are 17 member churches.
What are membership requirements?
The bylaws state that a church may join CCA by fulfilling 3 of the 5 below:
1. Writing a letter to recommendation to request participation
2. Pledging financial support
3. Pledging volunteer workers
4. Pledging food for the food ministry
5. Contributing clothing
Who runs CCA?
Bylaws of CCA call for five elected officers as approved by the board. The officers, along with committee chairpersons and the director are charged with the day-to-day operations.
Who makes up the Board of Directors?
The board consists of a president, vice president, recording secretary, corresponding secretary, and treasurer. Each member church is to nominate one lay person to represent on the board, with each member church clergy being automatically ex officio members.
Bylaws of CCA call for five elected officers as approved by the board. The officers, along with committee chairpersons and the director are charged with the day-to-day operations.
The current board officers are:
Ben Jernigan, Treasurer
What if my church is not a member?
Although CCA welcomes the services of all, the by-laws restrict membership and elected officers to representatives of member churches. We encourage everyone to volunteer; if you are in a nonmember church, we hope you will work to bring your congregation into CCA.
The board consists of a president, vice president, recording secretary, corresponding secretary, and treasurer. Each member church is to nominate one lay person to represent on the board, with each member church clergy being automatically ex officio members.
Bylaws of CCA call for five elected officers as approved by the board. The officers, along with committee chairpersons and the director are charged with the day-to-day operations.
What is Christian about CCA?
Our motto is to follow the mandate of Jesus when he said if you love me, “…Feed my sheep…”John 21:17. We fulfill this mission by providing food, clothing, utility assistance, prescription help and assistance with other emergencies. We are attempting to be God’s instrument in this ministry. Our volunteers witness to their own faith in dealing with persons in need.
Although CCA welcomes the services of all, the by-laws restrict membership and elected officers to representatives of member churches. We encourage everyone to volunteer; if you are in a nonmember church, we hope you will work to bring your congregation into CCA.
The board consists of a president, vice president, recording secretary, corresponding secretary, and treasurer. Each member church is to nominate one lay person to represent on the board, with each member church clergy being automatically ex officio members.
Bylaws of CCA call for five elected officers as approved by the board. The officers, along with committee chairpersons and the director are charged with the day-to-day operations.
What about finances?
CCA is supported financially by member churches, community groups, businesses and individuals. The board approves an annual budget and the director and/or the board chairperson approves the use of funds disbursed.