The Diversity, Missions, and Justice ministries of The United Methodist Churches of Indiana is enthused to grant funds to ministries and persons to impact, equip, and empower others each year. This is just one way that we live out our United Methodist mission of “making disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.” 

Choctaw Mission 

In addition to the Bishop’s Christmas Offering and Ministry with the Poor grants, we have had the privilege of granting funds to two other ministries. Out of our Native American Awareness fund, a $3000 grant was awarded to the United Methodist Choctaw Mission in Mississippi.  

Choctaw Mission focuses on three pillars, including community outreach, spiritual enrichment, and leadership development. Executive Director Patricia Battle shared that she is “delighted for the support. This will benefit our efforts with the Choctaw Mission to provide ministry with low-income Choctaw families.”  

Our Indiana Committee on Native American Ministries (CONAM) introduced the Conference to this ministry. This vibrant team conveys, “Our Native American Ministry always looks forward to giving hope and help to the tribal communities that need assistance.”  

Choctaw Mission has redefined their programs, including Eagle’s Nest, to provide for the needs of the children. This program provides diapers and feminine hygiene products, a shoe locker, new clothes for infants and children, school supplies, and operation Christmas gifts. 

Zanmi Fondwa 

In March 2021, Zanmi Fondwa was awarded $103,956 through the Shera Farm Trust earnings. Zanmi Fondwa was founded in 2018 by Revs. Jamalyn and David Williamson. It “exists to improve and transform the future of Haitian families – one home at a time.”  

Rev. Jamalyn shared that this ministry is “creating stability by providing jobs and stable housing” and that this is a ministry that “listens to the community.” Zanmi Fondwa is a unique ministry that is not dependent on outside groups and has a staff primarily made up of Haitians. This has allowed Zanmi Fondwa to continue building homes for Haitians during the pandemic. Their initial goal is to build 40 homes in three years. For more information about the ministry and for opportunities to give and serve, visit www.zanmifondwa.com.   

Diversity, Missions, and Justice ministries remains committed to the God I.D.E.A. and strives to be inclusive, diverse, equitable, and anti-racist as we reach in and beyond the walls of the Church to see all the people. To learn more about future grant and award opportunities or about CONAM, please contact Rev. Jen Huff, Missions Coordinator of the United Methodist Churches of Indiana.