our neighbors’ health

My left foot was behaving strangely. I couldn’t seem to grip my sandal, and I stubbed my toe when I ran. So I bought shoes that fit securely, and ignored the nagging worry. Then the pain in my left hand began, and I promised myself in the middle of the night that I would call the doctor in the morning. What if I hadn’t had insurance? I would have certainly waited until the symptoms went away or got much worse. Instead, my excellent primary physician referred me promptly to a neurologist who diagnosed my Multiple Sclerosis in 2010. The medication that has allowed me to live symptom-free (supported by many prayers) cost over $300/month, but my insurance covered it. What if I had to choose between treatment and food, rent, utility bills? I can hardly imagine, but many Americans face those choices daily. As you read Jeff’s letter below, put yourself in your neighbor’s shoes, and consider how we might love, as we have been loved. -Renée 

Dear New Covenant Family,

Imagine feeling ill or being in pain and not knowing what is wrong with your body. Now imagine you do not have a place to be treated to start the healing process but instead, have to choose between living with your illness and pain or face financial ruin by going to the emergency department out of necessity.

In November 2002, thanks to NCF sponsoring my trip to CCDA, I was inspired to start a Christian health center in Champaign County because there were people who needed healthcare but had nowhere to go to receive it, at least not in any affordable manner. After opening the Champaign County Christian Health Center (CCCHC) in September of 2004, volunteer doctors, nurses, social workers, and many others have treated and continue to treat thousands of our neighbors (patients) with significant healthcare needs.

To continue to provide this much needed service, we need your help. CCCHC has an opportunity to secure its own space to offer medical, mental, and dental health to those most in need. This new space will allow us the flexibility to expand services, recruit more volunteers, see more patients, and grow as an organization. Our goal is to raise $150,000.00 to pay for our facility for the next 3 years.

As with any organization, it takes resources to provide services. Our organization relies heavily on donors as we do not charge patients for care which includes dental work, mental health, lab tests, health education, social work, referral services, and primary health care. This care is still greatly needed as, despite the implementation of the Affordable Care Act, many individuals are without adequate health care coverage.

Additionally, due to Covid-19, we had to postpone our annual fundraising dinner to September of 2021, and therefore, need your help more than ever.

I hope that you will decide to provide financial resources to help CCCHC secure a home. If you have any questions, you can contact me at (217) 766-6425 or our director, Crystal Hogue at (847) 894-1980. You can also give through our website at www.ccchc2003.org.

NCF has quite a legacy in the Champaign County community and around the world. CCCHC is a part of that legacy and has been operating for nearly 17 years, helping thousands of people; because of the seeds this church planted long ago and the support it has shown over the years. The need is still there and therefore, seeds, water, and sunshine are all needed to heal and bring hope to those in need.  

Blessings,

Jeff Trask, Founder
Champaign County Christian Health Center

“Ascension Day: the Maker Among Us” (Kevin Hamilton)
5/16 Bulletin
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3 Comments On “our neighbors’ health”

  1. Thanks dear Pastor Renée
    Wonderful recollection & wonderful project.
    Love
    Evelyne

    Reply

  2. Thank you Jeff for letting us know the need and to Renee for sharing her related story.

    Reply

  3. Renee and Jeff.
    Thanks to both of you for sharing your stories!
    Love,
    Ron S

    Reply

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