December 2024 Newsbriefs

• Fire victims in North Spokane need supplies
• 2025 Legislative Conference focus is on being prophetic - Jan 25, 2025
• Fall fundraiser blends into end-of-year giving
• Chewelah hosts Christmas tree labyrinth - Dec 27 - Jan 3
• GU Climate center speaker addresses issues - Dec 3
• Christmas Bureau gives holiday assistance
• Nuestra Raíces opens community center
• Grant provides Audubon Park food bank new freezer
• Family Promise receives $2.5 million grant
• 'Joy and Wonder' gathering will be Dec. 5
• Groups provide schedule times to gather for Eco-Anxiety Cafés - Dec 7
• IHRC event is on Santa Claus - Dec 7
• Program empowers girls, women of color - Dec 14
• Center holds Christmas in Mexico performances - Dec 14 and 15
• Manzanita House hosts Winter Tea event - Dec 14
• YWCA Spokane makes "Hope for Holidays" brighter
• City, EWU recognize local leaders

Supplies for fire victims in North Spokane can be taken to New Hope Resource Center

By Bon Wakabayashi

Camping when the weather is great, can be fun, but for 36 families facing another winter in a camper or RV because they lost everything in the Oregon Rd. fire last year, not so much.

Some are waiting for contractors to rebuild. Some had insufficient or no insurance.

These North Spokane neighbors need help.

New Hope Resource Center in Colbert has been helping since the fire, providing coats, hats, scarves, gloves, boots, snow pants, sleeping bags, blankets and camp stoves, but supplies are low, and funds are needed.

The center asks churches and organizations to provide donations or items.

In addition to the above items, the needs include insulated coveralls, warm work gloves, wool sweaters, down or fleece jackets, shirts, pants, down comforters, lap throws, polar fleece or flannel sheets, heating pads, crock pots, teapots for a stove, TV trays, oil filled radiator-type heaters, tarps and bungees, snow shovels, deicer, small squeegees, mouse and rat repellent.

Donors can drop off items at New Hope Resource Center, 4211 E. Colbert Rd., from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Tuesdays and Thursdays, at 467-2900. Online donations can be made at newhoperesource.org/donate-here.

Volunteers are needed to split firewood and help rebuild.

The Resource Team is available at the North County Food Pantry from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Mondays or 9 a.m. to noon, Wednesdays at 4001A N. Collins Rd. Elk. For information, call 292-2530.

2025 Legislative Conference focus is on being prophetic

At the 2025 Eastern Washington Legislative Conference, plenary panel speakers, workshop leaders and regional faith advocates will address the theme, "What Does It Mean to Be Prophetic?"

Members of faith communities will join in person and online, meeting from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.January 25, 2025, at Spokane Valley United Methodist Church, 115 N. Raymond St.

Following an interfaith opening sharing insights on the theme, there will be a keynote plenary panel featuring DR Michel of Upper Columbia United Tribes, Margo Hill of the Spokane Tribe, Caj Matheson of the Coeur d'Alene Tribe and Bishop Gretchen Rehberg of the Episcopal Diocese of Spokane discussing the theme related to persistent tribal efforts to share Indigenous wisdom, and work for river health, ecosystem values, salmon runs and changes so everyone benefits.

Other elements of the program will include a panel with youth/young adult advocates giving voice to their concerns and actions, plus reports from advocates from Faith Action Network, the Washington State Catholic Conference and Earth Ministry/Interfaith Power and Light on issues coming before the 2025 legislature.

There will be two sessions with six workshops considering various issues of concern to faith communities, such as housing, human rights, hunger, racial equity in education, recycling, the GTN pipeline, refugees and immigrants, plus a "how to advocate" session. There will also be information tables. Fliers are available to promote the conference in congregations.

For information or to sign up, call 535-1813, email event@thefigtree.org, visit secure.givelively.org/event/the-fig-tree/2025-legislative-conference.

Fall fundraiser blends into end-of-year giving

As of press time, The Fig Tree's Harvest Festival of Sharing has raised $8,500 toward a year-end goal of $20,000.

The campaign includes Giving Tuesday on Dec. 3.

Donations to support The Fig Tree, Resource Directory and educational events are about connecting people with information, inspiring people with stories of hope and involving people in strengthening the lives of people in their communities.

"There are always many people engaged in many imaginative and impactful efforts to make a difference, to understand and respect one another despite differences and to work together to spread love," said editor-publisher Mary Stamp, who is be featured as one of several 2024 women of the year chosen by the Spokesman-Review.

She invites those who have not yet renewed their annual sponsorship or who might join the ranks of sponsors to read through the articles in this issue, and to look online at thefigtree.org to read other recent articles.

"Those stories alone should motivate donations to keep the stories coming," said Mary. "We are also excited that we have several new interns waiting to work with us to learn and apply our solutions-journalism approach, which contrasts with the usual fare of conflict, sensation, sexism and violence that define news in many media."

Donations may be made at thefigtree.org/donate.html.

Chewelah hosts Christmas tree labyrinth

The Chewelah Center for the Arts in presenting its annual Christmas Tree Labyrinth, an evening post-holiday experience from Dec 27 to Jan. 3 in its parking lot at 405 N. 3rd St. East.

A labyrinth is a symbolic path that guides participants on a contemplative walk toward the center and back. Traditionally used during Advent, this reflective journey creates space for calm, spiritual meditation. At the heart, participants will find an uplifting message and small token of appreciation to take home.

The labyrinth is crafted from donated Christmas trees by Paula Randall, a performer at the center.

"I wanted to give people something simple and joyful to do after the holiday chaos," she said.

Community members bring undecorated trees to the center Dec. 26 and 27.

Other holiday events at the Chewelah Center for the Arts include "Winter Wonderettes," Dec 5 to 8; "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, the Musical," Dec 13 to 15; "It's a Wonderful Life – A Live Radio Play," Dec 20 to 22; a "Very Merry Christmas Carol Sing-Along," Dec 22, and "Home for the Holidays," Dec 28.

For information, call 936-9333, email chewelahpaca@gmail.com or visit chewelahcenterforthearts.com.

Climate center speaker addresses issues

Nandita Bajaj, executive director of Population Balance and senior lecturer at Antioch University, will speak on "Confronting Population Denial Amid Unraveling Global Crises" at 4 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 3, at Hemmingson Auditorium.

It will also be live streamed online on Gonzaga University's Institute for Climate, Water and the Environment.

Population Balance is a U.S. nonprofit inspiring behavioral and systemic change to reduce human impact and elevate the well-being of people, animals and the planet. It holds the Overpopulation Podcast series that explores human expansionism.

Nandita, who teaches on the impacts of pronatalism and human expansionism at Antioch, will explain implications of population denial on vulnerable people and ecosystems, and how systems benefit from it.

She says the human population doubled from 4 billion in 1970 to 8 billion in 2024. It is expected to grow by another 2.5 billion by 2100. While scientists warn that overpopulation and overconsumption drive climate change, resource scarcity and biodiversity collapse, many dismiss that idea.

For information, visit gonzaga.edu/climate-institute/events.

Christmas Bureau gives holiday assistance

The 2024 Christmas Bureau, coordinated by Catholic Charities of Eastern Washington, Volunteers of America of the Inland Northwest and the Spokesman-Review, is marking its 78th year of providing holiday assistance to low-income families.

Grocery vouchers, toys and gifts for individuals and families in Greater Spokane are made possible by monetary donations and volunteer hours.

Persons interested in receiving gifts may apply online at christmasbureauspokane.org.

Donations may be made online or checks may be mailed to The Spokesman-Review Christmas Fund, PO Box 516, Spokane, WA 99210.

People may bring their ID to pick up the gifts Dec. 12 to 19, at the Spokane County Fair and Expo Center, 404 N. Havana— 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Dec. 12, 13, 14 or 19, or from 3 to 7 p.m., Dec. 16 to 18.

Nuestra Raíces opens community center

In October as part of Hispanic Heritage Month, about 300 gathered as Nuestra Raíces Centro Comunitario (NRCC) opened an office at 381 E. Main in Othello, where 75.6 percent of its population is Hispanic or Latino.

It is expanding there because Othello is a destination for immigrants from Latin America who come as migrant workers or for seasonal farm work.

The office provides services in Spanish close to their homes.

At the opening, a mobile clinic did blood pressure checks.

The Othello center services include Esperanza health and human services, Exito economic development, education, advocacy, worker's rights and cultural events.

"Agricultural workers are crucial in ensuring food security and driving economic growth. However, many face challenges that hinder their productivity and well-bring. That's why we are bringing our services to a rural area," said Brianda Perez, NRCC outreach coordinator.

"Many rural areas lack services in different languages, so people travel distances for assistance. Our Exito Business Development program will help Hispanics and Latinos apply for taxpayer identification numbers and permits to start a business, and offer advice," she said.

"Agricultural workers also face mental health challenges. Our Esperanza Health and Human Services will be available at Othello to provide farmworkers and families tele-mental health services for counseling," she said.

Four staff are on hand and more will be hired to meet community needs. Spokane health and wellness social workers are accessible by satellite.

Office hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday to Thursday for walk-ins or by appointment.

For information, call 557-0566, visit hbpaofspokane.org.

Grant provides Audubon Park food bank new freezer

Wellpoint/Washington Apple Health recently gave a grant to support Spokane families by granting $20,000 to the Audubon Park Food Bank, which is located in the basement of Audubon Park United Methodist Church, 3908 N. Driscoll Blvd.

After more than 40 years of service assisting hundreds of area families, the food bank is ready for some updates.

Karen Peacock, food bank director, said they serve up to 65 different households each month. Most come each time the food bank is open.

There is a significant need for fresh, quality food, she said.

At the Audubon Park Food Bank, clients can shop the shelves and choose what they need for their families. Its goal is to feed families and make shopping at the food bank a positive experience.

With the grant from Wellpoint, the church will install a walk-in freezer, so it is easier for volunteers and clients to access what they need. Last year, Wellpoint helped update flooring for the food bank.

For information, call 325-4541.

Family Promise receives $2.5 million grant

Family Promise of Spokane has received a $2.5 million award from the Bezos Day 1 Families Fund. It is one of 40 organizations across the U.S. selected by an independent advisory group of family homelessness experts for its leadership in helping families experiencing homelessness in Spokane find stability and wellbeing.

Family Promise will use the funds to reach more families, improve its ability to serve them and create new models to meet needs of families in the area, said Joe Ader, executive director.

"This five-year award empowers us to expand our innovative housing solutions, offering families a secure pathway back into stable homes," he said. "With these resources, we can deepen our impact and drive lasting change, helping break the cycle of homelessness for countless children and parents,"

For information, call 747-5487 or visit familypromiseofspokane.org.

'Joy and Wonder' gathering will be Dec. 5

"A Community Gathering: Joy and Wonder" will be held at 6 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 5, at Liberty Park Library, 402 S. Pittsburgh St., featuring an interfaith spiritual practice developed around Cole Arthur Riley's "Black Liturgies: Prayers, Poems, and Meditations for Staying Human."

"Black Liturgies provides a safe harbor for people who have 'escaped the trauma from white Christian nationalism, religious homophobia and transphobia, biblical ableism and ecclesial misogyny.' It is also for people healing from spiritual spaces that were more violent than loving, more tyrannical than liberating," said Jonathan Rossing of Gonzaga University, who will facilitate the gathering.

Readers from the community will share passages and reflections both from Black Liturgies and from Black intellectuals, ancestors, authors and mentors who have provided guidance, anchoring or safe harbor. There will be time for community reflection and discussion.

For information, call 444-5300 or email telref@spokanelibrary.org.

Groups provide schedule times to gather for Eco-Anxiety Cafés

350 Spokane, NAACP Spokane, Manito United Methodist Church and The Lands Council are each co-sponsoring one of five free Eco-Anxiety Cafes for people who are concerned about climate change.

The next one will take place from 10 a.m. to noon, Saturday, Dec. 7, at Manito United Methodist Church, 3220 S. Grand Blvd.

Participants come to an Eco-Anxiety Cafe to share their thoughts and feelings, find or share resources, and connect with others who feel the way.

Although the event is free, registration is requested at 747-4755.

The other Eco-Anxiety Cafes scheduled on first Saturdays of January, February, March, April and May 2025.

For information, email adygertgearheart@hotmail.com or visit docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSd8-ZSFrijr3oPZR00-PMO1W-RkS_klKglifuqo52Zwu7t8Ow/viewform.

IHRC event is on Santa Claus

Immaculate Heart Retreat Center is offering a program for families and children from 10 a.m. to noon, Saturday, Dec. 7, on "How Saint Nicholas Became Santa," connecting Santa Claus with the real Saint Nicholas.

Also, a Silent Day of Prayer will be led by Fr. Miguel Mejia on "Our Lady of Guadalupe: A Personal Encounter," from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Wednesday, Dec.11.

Both events are at the center, 6910 S. Ben Burr Rd.

For information or to register, call 448-1224 or visit ihrc.net.

Program empowers girls, women of color

YWCA Spokane and Strong Women Achieving Greatness (SWAG) are partnering for their Youth Self-Care Summit for young women of color to help girls ages 11 to 17 feel belonging and self-worth so they develop positive relationships. It is from 1:30 to 4 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 14, at The HIVE, 2904 E. Sprague.

SWAG founder Jaime Stacy who seeks to empower youth through Spokane Public Schools and SWAG, will speak on "12 Ways to Celebrate Yourself."

Prosparetti Coleman and Priya Osborne will lead the discussions.

Prosparetti is a community educator, advocate, wellness coach and doula committed to the well-being of Black and Brown women and girls. She founded "I Hear You Sis" to create environments rooted in storytelling, collective healing and embodied support.

Priya is director of student success, equity and diversity at Spokane Community College and advisor to the NAACP Youth Council. She uplifts young voices and fosters spaces for students to access resources to help young women of color to thrive.

For information, call/text 370-9024, email prevention@ywcaspokane.org or register at ywcaspokane.org > self-care-summit.

Center holds Christmas in Mexico performances

Myrtle Woldson Performing Arts Center announces a family holiday performance of "Campana Sobre Campana: Christmas in Mexico" with Jaime Cuellar's Mariachi Garibaldi and Ballet Folklorico Del Rio Grande at 7 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 14, and 2 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 15, at the Myrtle Woldson Performing Arts Center, 211 E. DeSmet.

The performance weaves Mexican traditions into a story of the season. The Campana Sobre Campana (Bells upon Bells) rhythms and Mexican dance reenact Mary and Joseph's journey of Posada (the Inns), the majesty of Reyes Magos (Wise Men) and breaking pinatas.

Mariachi Garibaldi has performed 30 years in the U.S. and Mexico. Jimmy "El Pollo" Cuellar, son of Jaime, directs the group. The 20-member Ballet Folklorico has toured Canada, France, Italy, Argentina and Mexico.

For information and tickets, call 313-2787.

Manzanita House hosts Winter Tea event

Manzanita House will hold its annual Winter Tea Tasting and Bazaar, celebrating immigrant-owned businesses and entrepreneurs, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 14, at the Martin Luther King Jr. Family Outreach Center, 500 S. Stone.

Activities include multicultural performances, traditional henna and face painting, wreath making, snowflake crafts and a photo booth.

There will be treats prepared by chefs at Feast World Kitchen, with allergen-friendly options from Boots Bakery.

YWCA Spokane makes holidays brighter

YWCA Spokane plans its annual Hope for the Holidays campaign to make the holidays brighter for those experiencing domestic violence, homelessness and unemployment.

"Many families face hardships during the holidays," said Jeanette Hauck, CEO of YWCA Spokane. "Through Hope for the Holidays, we come together as a community to ensure that families and survivors feel supported."

This year, 90 families served by YWCA Spokane seek support. Gift cards empower individuals and parents to choose meaningful items for themselves or their loved ones. The website at ywcaspokane.org/2024holidays offers an Adopt a Family's Wishlist. Gifts must be dropped off at YWCA Spokane, 930 N Monroe St., from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Dec. 5 and 6, so they can be distributed to families before the holidays.

Donations may be made at ywcaspokane.org/2024holidays.

For information, visit ywcaspokane.org.

City, EWU recognize local leaders

Eastern Washington University and the City of Spokane is organizing a storytelling project, "Neighbors You Should Know: A Spokane Video Series," for the 25th anniversary of the City's Office of Neighborhood Services.

Sixty-second videos will highlight community leaders and groups. They are published on CityCable5, said Tyler Tamoush, research staff associate and project organizer.

For information, email ttamoush@spokanecity.org.