North Carolina Baptist’s
ministry to an aging population was just introduced at last year’s annual
meeting but has already begun making a difference in a number of communities
and in individual’s lives.
“We do not build retirement
homes but we sure do help people in need,” said Michael Blackwell, North
Carolina Baptist Aging Ministry’s president.
In the report for NCBAM,
given Nov. 9 at the annual meeting of the Baptist State Convention of North
Carolina, Blackwell called himself a doting grandfather and updated messengers
about the safe arrival of his “children” early that morning.
The “children” are from
Baptist Children’s Home (BCH) who had come to Koury Convention Center the first
night of the meeting for its presentation. Blackwell also runs BCH.
For many aging men and
women, they are “sometimes just a little too proud to ask for help,” Blackwell
said.
Through NCBAM, someone had
help getting a glass eye, houses were cleaned, dishes were washed, etc.
Blackwell said NCBAM was in
63 associations and 60 churches across North Carolina.
Around 600 helpers have been
sent out through NCBAM to serve the elderly; 21 grants have been given to
churches or associations to help with NCBAM ministries; and 16 training
sessions were held.
A World War II veteran has
been alone for 32 years since his wife died from cancer in Alamance County.
Because of NCBAM, he now has access to Meals on Wheels.
Blackwell said this man has
no church affiliation.
“You and I as North Carolina
Baptists could provide God’s face,” he said.
The pamphlet provides “help
for the journey to show how you can get involved” with seniors in the local
community.
“Too many aging adults today
are falling through the cracks,” Blackwell said.
In his closing comments,
Blackwell offered some advice:
- Be well
- Stay strong
- Know your numbers (blood
pressure, cholesterol)
- Wear sunscreen
- Take vitamins
Blackwell encouraged people
to be aware of the needs around them.
“Friends that is NCBAM in
the flesh,” he said.
Volunteers and staff members
distributed “Passport: Help for the journey,” a handout to give ideas to help
senior citizens for each month of the year.