The Chautauqua County Rural Ministry is based on the belief that every person is deserving of adequate food, clothing, shelter and the work opportunity to acquire basic necessities.
Many people mistake the Rural Ministry solely as a religious organization. In fact, the Chautauqua County Rural Ministry, (CCRM), is a non-denominational human service agency that receives support from a wide variety of sources. Many local churches provide financial and volunteer support, but primarily funding comes from extensive efforts by the agency Director Cathy Peterson and the Board of Directors headed by Marie O'Rourke, Linda Dunn, Tom Barresi, Dan O'Rourke, Rev. Irwin Reist, Joan Lyons, Ralph T. Webdale, and Francis "Mac" McCoy. Funding comes from Federal and State initiatives, private foundations and donations from the community.
The Rural Ministry began in the 1950's when a group of concerned citizens sought more effective ways to help the growing migrant population. As time passed and changes were made, it became evident that more than the migrant population was at risk of living in sub-standard housing, not have enough food or clothing, or being discriminated against. Since then, the Ministry has evolved into a full-blown advocacy and helping agency.
As a result, these initiatives have helped people from all walks of life, and in a wide variety of circumstances through the Rural Ministry. CCRM was also responsible for creating the first successful hotline for rape and battering program, and influenced many of the human service agencies to develop a better awareness of violence in the home. Such effort created numerous programs now available in Chautauqua County.
Over the years, the Rural Ministry has been involved in a number of controversial issues in it's commitment to fight for the disenfranchised, and will continue to act as a place of hope for all who need it. CCRM just celebrated it's 33rd year as an agency. Our agency is successful because people in the community care about others, and generously support us with donations of food, clothing, furniture, cash contributions and volunteerism. The Rural Ministry also plays a vital role helping the needy by partnering with similar agencies countywide and regionally.
CLIENT SCREENING
When a client first comes to the Rural Ministry, an Intake Form is used to screen the client for priorities for what is needed. Food, clothing, and shelter is given after an assessment is made according to the information given. Click the View PDF button to see an example. If you need a copy of Acrobat Reader, you can download it from the button below.
