There is no doubt that we are living in unprecedented times. As you can imagine, we've been meeting diligently as a team: praying and seeking the council of local and national leaders both governmental and spiritual because we take very seriously the decisions that are ahead of us in the coming days and weeks. 

As schools are closing, businesses are struggling, and grocery stores are being wiped out: there are tons of people caught in the crossfire. There are children who depend on school lunches – but they’re not in school. We have working parents who can't afford the additional costs of childcare. Men and women who can't afford to have their work hours cut. There's no doubt that many in our community are experiencing crisis. 

Yet, in times of crisis, hospitals don't close -  they expand their coverage of care… And New Chapel has never been a club for Christians. We are a hospital for hurting people. This is the churches finest hour! We’re going to rise to the challenge of meeting the needs of our community. 

The need is great but so is the opportunity. 

So here's our plan: Beginning today, we are launching New Chapel’s response to disasters (like COVID-19). Our rapid response will be called, “Team Relief.”

1. We're coordinating with the “Hand to Hand” Kids Food Outreach to identify the most pressing needs in the greater Grand Rapids area. If you'd like to serve you can sign up here.

2. If you’re an elderly or vulnerable person who needs assistance retrieving goods, or an able bodied person whose willing to deliver goods to people: let us know! We want to connect you two to ensure that people aren’t left behind in this time.