Our Homelessnes Task Force has distributed $1,000 worth of Safeway gift cards to family-support staff at Highland Park, Sanislo, and West Seattle elementaries. They in turn will give the $25 cards to families in need of a little help to avoid a financial crisis. The task-force budget also provides critical rent or utility assistance to school families.

The relationship with Sanislo is new. The school replaces Roxhill Elementary, which no longer has dedicated family-support staff. Like the other two schools, the majority of Sanislo students qualify for free or reduced-price lunch.

The congregation was also generous in giving $1,250 during our August school-supply drive. Volunteers with West Seattle Rotary's Pencil Me in for Kids campaign are using this cash for at-cost purchase of supplies from Staples. They initially bought supplies known to be helpful for low-income students studying at home. They will spend the remainder when additional needs for on-line learning become clear.