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    Marlene Ferguson, the Trinidadian-born chair of the Family Life Committee at Fenimore Street United Methodist Church (FSUMC) in Brooklyn, says her ministry hosted a successful back-to-school celebration for unhoused children and their families in the city on Saturday, Aug. 1. “This event culminates with the ongoing celebration of 30 years of ministry in our commitment to underserved families,” Ferguson, a retired Registered Nurse, told Caribbean Life. “Under our church theme of ‘Loving God and Loving People,’ our moral imperative is to feed and help our neighbors, and our mission is to advocate love and care for homeless/less fortunate families.” [caption id="attachment_84816" align="aligncenter" width="607"]Sis. Marlene Ferguson addresses  families. Sis. Marlene Ferguson addresses families.Nelson A. King[/caption] She said that while there were “severe delays in the arrival of the groups due to transportation issues and other logistics, the event was a success.”  “The families were welcomed and immediately began entertainment with various games, which were coordinated by our very own Pastor (the Rev. Roger) Jackson,” Ferguson said. “The winners received prizes and also consolation prizes to soothe the discouraged losers.” She said families were treated to “a delicious lunch menu” featuring french fries, fried chicken, hot dogs, potato salad, macaroni and cheese, barbecue chicken, baked chicken, rice and peas, and a variety of Caribbean and other beverages.  Ferguson said dessert was “topped” with ice-cream and cake.  [caption id="attachment_84814" align="aligncenter" width="700"] "The Fruit Corner" unit of the Family Life Committee.Nelson A. King[/caption] “Our Fellowship Hall illuminated with the presence of families as they expressed their appreciation for the warm reception,” she said, stating that the event culminated with the distribution of the school supplies, including 100 book bags. She also said 21 book bags were donated and sent with one of the counselors for an upcoming event on Aug. 22 at 116th Avenue and 140th Street.  In addition, Ferguson said 39 book bags were distributed to church families.  “The distribution of these supplies will enable the children to go to school with new school supplies for the academic year 2026,” said Ferguson, adding that “the event met unexpected challenges and barriers, which impacted on the operation of the event.  “It is imperative that the Family Life Ministry continue its effort to serve those underserved families, as their socio-economic status remains a persistent challenge with significant income disparities within the community,” she continued, expressing “sincere gratitude” to Pastor Jackson and First Lady Sis. Kim Jackson “who has adapted this event and works tirelessly with the clients.” [caption id="attachment_84815" align="aligncenter" width="700"]Loretta, left, receives a gift from Frances Johnson. Loretta, left, receives a gift from Frances Johnson.Nelson A. King[/caption] Belizean Gaynor Martinez, recreational coordinator at Brownsville’s BCS Fannie Barnes, said she was delighted to bring unhoused families to the 136-year-old church at the corner of Fenimore Street and Rogers Avenue three times a year – August, Christmas, and Easter. “I love this place!” she told Caribbean Life. “They’re very generous. They’ve been very loyal, very helpful." “They show a lot of commitment to help the families,” Martinez added. “I’m very grateful for this church. They make my life easier. I don’t have to find them; they find me.” Jamel McKitchen, who brings families from South Jamaica, Queens, also applauded FSUMC’s initiative.  “This is a great thing that they have been doing,” he told Caribbean Life. “The kids love it. They always make sure they give the kids something, and they’re consistent with it. A lot of people are not consistent." “It’s a blessing being invited to come back each year,” McKitchen added. “We need more people doing this in the community.”
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