This week we greet you virtually as we practice physical distancing + social solidarity from our homes, as many of you are across the state. Communities across the globe are feeling the impact of the novel strain of the coronavirus, COVID-19. Despite many gatherings and events being postponed, communities are finding ways to come together whether it be a digital "hangout" or a personal phone call to check-in. During this time of uncertainty, we hope you take solace in knowing that you do not walk alone in this journey; we are here with you. 

In our community of faith, coming together in prayer can strengthen our minds, bodies, and souls. We invite you to join us virtually at 9:00 a.m. every morning for the next two weeks on the North Carolina Council of Churches Facebook page for our series "Lift Up Your Hearts: Words of Strength and Faith from the Council." Each morning a member of the North Carolina Council of Church's staff will offer reflective meditations to center and ground us as we navigate these challenging waters. Executive Director Jennifer Copeland began the series this morning with words from the prophet Isaiah. Click the button below to view the video and join us in prayer. 

"The list of those in need goes on: parents who must juggle work and childcare as our schools temporarily close, healthcare workers who will be called on to give even more to our communities, uninsured and underinsured people who will be forced to make difficult decisions. Please pay attention to these people as they move among us."

Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director 

As we continue navigating this current normal of physical distancing, we want to be sure we remain socially connected with all of our partners, friends, and neighbors across the state. Please use this form to share information about the needs of your congregations and communities, or useful resources you know of that we can share with others. This will help us know what resources to seek out so we can pass them along to you.

We hear you, we see you, we are with you. 

The PHW mini-grant cycle is open! A PHW mini-grant allows Collaborative congregations to support projects that engage the community in one of our four cornerstones: healthy eating, physical activity, tobacco cessation, and mental health. Eligible congregations are invited to request up to $1000 annually. To learn how to become a PHW Collaborative member and to learn more about our mini-grant program, please click here. Browse our FAQs, and take the first step by submitting a Collaborative Pledge. 

The current healthcare crisis brings into sharp focus what many people have been facing for decades, the fear that they, or a loved one, may be unable to obtain even basic medical care. If you are uninsured or underinsured and would like to share your story, we invite you to do so on this form. We join with partners across the state to shed  light on the impact of the lack of access to healthcare for North Carolinians. Now more than ever, our state and our country have a duty to make healthcare a human right.