Gehman Mennonite Church - Online Church Bulletin Board: Fwd: New Year, New Impact

---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: REAL Life Community Services <rod@reallcs.org>
Date: Thu, Jan 1, 2026 at 12:02 AM
Subject: New Year, New Impact – See What's Ahead in 2026
To: <philandkelly@gmail.com>

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Christmas Success!

This year, Project Christmas Presents made an even bigger impact—providing gifts to 277 children in the Cocalico School District, over 100 more than last year. This incredible growth was made possible by the generosity of our community.

Families gathered for our annual Christmas party to enjoy hot cocoa and cookies, make crafts, take photos with Santa, and celebrate the season together. The room was full of laughter, creativity, and neighbors connecting during a joyful holiday celebration.

Through the support of local churches and businesses, parents were also able to "shop" for gifts in Santa's Workshop, where tables were overflowing with toys to choose from. Together, we helped ensure that every child experienced the joy of Christmas.

This year brought real challenges for many families, yet once again God showed His faithfulness through our community. As REAL Life stepped out in faith with our Thanks4Giving campaign, we trusted Him to provide what was needed to continue serving our neighbors with food, housing and utility assistance, education, and hope.

You answered that call. Boy, did we underestimate what we could accomplish together this year! As of December 31, we know we raised $341,520, and as additional checks arrive and pledges are fulfilled, we are confident the final total has exceeded our $300,000 goal even further. The final number will continue to be updated on our website as gifts are received—be sure to check our website and Facebook page for the latest totals!

Because of you, REAL Life can continue offering dignity, stability, and hope to families across Northern Lancaster County. To God be all the glory—and thank you for being such an essential part of this ministry.

Click Here to see our Thanks4Giving Total!

Subaru "Loves to Help" Returns to Cocalico!

For the third year, Subaru is teaming up with Operation Warm at our Lighthouse Community Center to make sure kids have new shoes and winter coats to stay warm, dry, and confident.

Little feet grow fast—and worn-out shoes or missing essentials can make life harder for families. Thanks to Subaru's generosity, dozens of children will have what they need to thrive this winter!

We're so excited to welcome Subaru back—come celebrate with us and see the difference they're making in our community!

SAVE THE DATE

Get ready for an evening of inspiration, connection, and celebration! At this year's banquet, you'll hear powerful stories of hope and resilience from individuals and families whose lives have been transformed by REAL Life. Enjoy uplifting live music, meaningful moments of reflection, and the chance to connect with others who are making a difference in our community.

Bring a friend and experience the heart of our mission firsthand. Registration opens February 1—space is limited, so mark your calendar and plan to reserve your spot!

From our REAL Life family to yours- Happy New Years!!!

Help us keep these programs and more going! Consider a generous gift today to Connect the Community to Hope!

Give Now

First Friday Food Drive

January 2nd

Every first Friday of the month, we will be hosting a food drive. It's a way the community can give back and help donate items that we need.

You can drop off food at any time from 3-5 pm on that day.

Alcoholics Anonymous

Mondays, 8-9PM

Meeting at the Lighthouse Community Center.

Momentum

Tuesdays, 6:30-8PM

Momentum guarantees a young person that there is someone who cares about them. A child needs to know that they are not alone in dealing with the day-to-day challenges of life.

Momentum meets at the Lighthouse Community Center throughout the school year following the Cocalico School District calendar.

Young at Heart

Wednesdays, 9-11AM

All events are free and are for individuals that are 60 years and older. Coffee, chatting, games, speakers, and MORE! Come out and get to know others in your community!

1st & 3rd Wednesdays we meet at Adamstown Area Library!

2nd & 4th Wednesdays we meet at Faith Evangelical United Lutheran Church in Denver!