Centerpoint Church, Send Relief’s Ministry Center Affiliate, is dedicated to caring for refugees and is an active testament to the power of compassion and faith. In Charleston, South Carolina, this commitment is lived out daily through the selfless efforts of volunteers, the generosity of supporters, and the guiding hand of God. The community, including a united front of churches from various denominations that has formed there, works together to provide essential care and support to refugees.
Through this collaborative effort, dedicated medical professionals offer their time and expertise to provide medical assistance to immigrants and refugees in the community. These individuals perform vital tasks such as conducting blood pressure checks, offering advice, and building relationships. Most importantly, they demonstrate God’s love through their actions and involvement. The shared purpose of serving others in Jesus’ name is the driving force behind this inspiring work.
“We want Jesus to be unignorable to every woman, man, and child, just as it was when Jesus came,” said Craig Tuck, Associational Mission Strategist for the Charleston Baptist Association (CBA).
Through their recently adopted 10×10 Plan, the South Carolina convention has made a substantial financial commitment to the CBA to help jumpstart The Hub.
“Craig’s vision for this ministry is innovative and refreshing,” said Tony Wolfe, executive director-treasurer for SC Baptist. “The Charleston area is exploding with population growth, and a great number are foreign-born. As opportunity multiplies for meaningful gospel-centered ministry, the CBA and its local partners are rising to their time to demonstrate the love of God to all people.”
Curiously, Charleston is home to a significant number of refugees from Congo. One family, Steve and Melinda McMillan, has played a pivotal role in supporting the Congolese community.
The McMillans, who have deep roots in Congo, have dedicated their lives to serving others in Africa. Their journey to the United States and obedience to settle specifically in Charleston when they didn’t know why brought them full circle, reuniting them with the Congolese community they had once served.
“Many of the refugees arriving haven’t had access to running water, air conditioning, schooling, or healthcare,” Steve said. “We’re helping them adjust to their new lives—providing support with employment, housing, reading and writing, and getting their kids into schools—to settle in this amazing country we live in.”
The Centerpoint team has been instrumental in connecting refugees with essential resources and opportunities. A local restaurant has trained and provided employment to individuals who are able to work. Recognizing the challenges of transportation, the restaurant also provided drivers to assist refugees in getting to and from their jobs.
Beyond employment, the community has rallied together to provide additional support. A Christian soccer team has welcomed children of all ages, offering a sense of belonging, healthy recreation, and the opportunity to hear the gospel.
While the community has shown tremendous support, there remains a pressing need for continued assistance.
“The life expectancy in our zip code is lower than the national expectancy due to limited access to affordable healthcare,” said Craig. “We are initiating a health clinic to raise that number and aspire to open in 2025.”
Funding and prayers are critical components of the church’s efforts. Donations will support the launch of the health clinic and build housing for new arrivals, as well as provide transportation for medical appointments, school, and other essential needs.
Centerpoint Church is building strong communities and providing vital care to refugees in need. Through the power of God and the generosity of supporters, Send Relief workers in the community continue to make a positive impact on the lives of countless individuals.
Published August 30, 2024