Story About CCS’ Help Shared At Annual Love Thy Neighbor Luncheon
Attendees listen during Combined Community Services’ annual Love Thy Neighbor Luncheon on Thursday, Feb. 22, at Warsaw Community Church.
Text and Photos
By Leah Sander
InkFreeNews
WARSAW — Elizabeth France was having a difficult time.
She was pregnant with her daughter and had gotten out of an abusive relationship.
France called 211 and was connected to Combined Community Services of Warsaw.
Her story was shared in a video shown during CCS’ annual Love Thy Neighbor Luncheon on Thursday, Feb. 22.
The event, held at Warsaw Community Church, spotlighted people who’ve been helped by the Warsaw social services organization and explained more of what CCS does.
France met with CCS’ Sabrina Phillips, who runs the organization’s Project Independence.
Phillips said in the video she got to see “France thrive and grow, not only as a mother, but as an individual.”
France said she was not only helped by CCS, but other nonprofits, including Heartline Pregnancy Center, the Kosciusko Community Foundation, REAL Services and Baker Youth Club.
She earned her bachelor’s degree and got a job with a local insurance agency.
France noted her life wouldn’t have gotten better “without everyone’s help.”
In addition to the video, luncheon attendees heard about several of CCS’ programs.
CCS Executive Director Randy Polston also spoke.
“What has happened over the last four years with the pandemic and inflation, we are just seeing more and more and more need in our community,” he said. “We worked very hard in 2023 to address that need, being (Jesus’) hands and feet, because that’s what it’s all about, making a difference, making an impact in this community.”
Polston noted the organization is struggling financially and help from the community is needed.
To learn more about CCS or how to give, people may go to ccsgives.com.
CCS Executive Director Randy Polston speaks at the luncheon.
CCS Board Member Matt Reimink, left, Kosciusko Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Rob Parker, center, and Polston have some fun posing for the camera before the luncheon.
