The Beaches Emergency Assistance Ministry recently celebrated its 40th anniversary at its annual gala the Beach Ball that raised a record $337,000.
The Jacksonville Beach-based nonprofit, also known as BEAM, provides emergency financial assistance, nutritious food and targeted support for seniors and single parents throughout the Beaches community.
“This year’s Beach Ball was … a milestone,” CEO Jeff Winkler said. “For 40 years BEAM has been here because of the unwavering generosity of our supporters, the dedication of our volunteers and the resilience of the families we serve. We are proud of how far we’ve come — and we are even more excited for what the next 40 years will bring.”
BEAM was founded in 1985 by local churches that received personal appeals for emergency financial assistance. The nonprofit was designed to meet such needs in a coordinated way and prevent duplication of services, according to the BEAM website.
Each year, it provides almost 925,000 meals and spends about $895,000 covering overdue rent and utility bills for families in need.
“It has been a humbling experience to step into this role,” Winkler said. “What makes leading BEAM so special is recognizing that the agency is far greater than any one individual. My goal is to honor that legacy by making the most meaningful impact I can.”
John Reed and his wife have volunteered at the BEAM food pantry for four years.
“We love to see the joy and comfort on our clients faces as we help them with their food selections, often getting a sincere hug on their way out,” he said. “The opportunity … brings us as much or more joy and comfort along with those we help.”
Among BEAM’s business supporters is Berry & Co. Real Estate, the longtime presenting sponsor of the gala.
The firm is “proud to support BEAM and the incredible work they do to uplift families in need throughout the Beaches community,” owner Clare Berry said. “We’re helping to strengthen the safety net that catches our neighbors when they need it most.”
At the gala, U.S. Rep. Aaron Bean, a Fernandina Beach Republican, led the live auction. He also recently shined the spotlight on BEAM on the House floor in Washington.
“A beam is a ray of light and a symbol of hope,” he said. “For more than 40 years, BEAM in Jacksonville Beach … has been that light delivering hope and help.”
BEAM, which has full-service sites in Jacksonville Beach and Mayport, offers rent and utility assistance, food pantries and a thrift store. Its Grace Gardens also provides fresh vegetables and fruits to clients. Other services include single-parent and senior case coordination, assistance with SNAP and Medicaid applications, income tax filing, Thanksgiving baskets and a Beaches Back-to-School Bash event.
To donate, volunteer or get more information, call (904) 241-7437, email info@jaxbeam.org or go to jaxbeam.org. To seek help, call (904) 241-2326 or email help@jaxbeam.org.
bcravey@jacksonville.com, (904) 359-4109
This article originally appeared on Florida Times-Union: ‘Symbol of hope’: Beaches Emergency Assistance Ministry celebrates 40 years of service
Reporting by Beth Reese Cravey, Jacksonville Florida Times-Union / Florida Times-Union
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
