Our Story...

The Ministry of Concern is here to lend a helping hand to our neighbors to improve the overall vitality of our communities.  We are encouraged by the words of Margaret Mead:


"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world.  Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has."


Please join us by donating, becoming a Coach (mentor), or helping out with special events and fundraisers.  

​​​​The Ministry of Concern grew out of the Migrant Ministry committees of the churches in Orleans and Genesee Counties in the 1950's.  Over time many migrant workers resettled in our area and faced new problems such as job and housing discrimination and economic hardship.  To meet their year-round needs, the committee formed the Genesee Orleans Ministry of Concern, incorporated in June 1968, to work with them and all of the economically poor of the two county area.   


Today, the Ministry of Concern provides services to low income residents who are facing hardship and/or crisis.  Our communities have been greatly impacted by the loss of manufacturing jobs in the surrounding urban areas.  As a result many families and individuals are struggling and many are working part-time or low wage jobs.  


Who comes to us for assistance?

-  Adults and young people working for temporary agencies or working several low paying jobs who find it difficult to afford home furnishings. 

- Families and individuals struggling  to pay for utilities or prescription co-pays. 

- Older adults who have experienced a sudden loss in income due to the death of a spouse.  

- People just starting a job who need gas money to get to work until they get a pay check.

- Families with children who are at risk of school failure turn to us for youth development activities through our Just Friends program.


These are just a few of  the situations faced by our neighbors who come to the Ministry of Concern for help when they have exhausted all other sources of assistance.