A commitment to bold and innovative outreach was one of the founding hallmarks of St. Martin’s, and we continue to strive to be a beacon in our community.     We give our time and talents both publicly and privately, as a church and as individuals. As a parish, we regularly support a variety of charities and community services. We share our facilities with groups who need meeting space.  We also respond eagerly when special fund-raising appeals are brought to our attention.      

For example, we have generously contributed scholarship funds for low-income children to attend a local day camp, for homeless and Gulf Coast needs, and we’ve sponsored children with HIV-AIDS to attend a special camp in Norfolk. At various times of the year, our narthex is filled with coats for the needy, and school supplies for children who can’t afford them. Many of us have adopted the practice of bringing canned and dry food items weekly to be shared through FISH.   .      

Individual parishioners are also eager to respond to calls for mentors and tutors in the community, and we look for ways to provide hands-on assistance to our local schools and charities. We studied the United Nations Millennium Development Goals and responded through supporting a project in Ghana.

On the first Sunday of the month undesignated cash is used for special outreach. Half of the undesignated cash goes to support the rector’s discretionary fund, allowing Shirley to respond to sudden or unexpected financial needs of parishioners.  The other half of the funds are designated for other needs such as the Society for Increase of the Ministry, Camp Wakanda, military chaplains, Walk the Talk Jail Ministries, and the Bishops Relief Fund.  

Additionally, St. Martin’s cooperates with the United Way, Williamsburg and James City County Social Services, and the Salvation Army to help individuals with a one-time emergency need.  The Vestry budgets $8,000 to help individuals with rent, electric bills, transportation, and medication.
 
Below is information about the organizations St. Martin's supports.