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Sep 07, 2011 | Luke Blount

Churches Find New Ways to Raise Money for NetsforLife

As the Diocese of Texas continues in its effort to purchase almost 30,000 nets for Episcopal Relief and Development's NetsforLife® program, churches are finding new ways to fund the efforts aimed at eradicating Malaria.

 

St. Mark's, Houston, recently held a fundraiser entitled "Gravy for Good." Several members of the congregation gathered to make spaghetti sauce to sell on St. Mark's Rally Day, August 28. The volunteers made 1600 ounces of sauce for 100 containers. 

 

"All 100 containers sold within an hour and a half," said volunteer Tonya Pickron. "We raised enough money to purchase 100 more nets. And we have received numerous compliments and orders for another batch. Another spaghetti making session is in the works for later this fall to fill pre-orders."

 

At St. Mary's, Cypress, the Rev. Meredith Holt challenged her parish to pledge one net for each family through a continuous pledge drive. After one Sunday, the church already exceeded their goal, pledging 156 nets from just 37 pledge cards. And on September 4th, the church raised their total to 168 nets or $2,026.75. 

 

"St. Mary's rose to the challenge," Holt said to her congregation. "I give thanks to God for all your prayers and hard work."

 

In partnership with corporations, foundations, NGOs and faith-based organizations, NetsforLife® implements integrated malaria-prevention programs in 17 countries in sub-Saharan Africa. Each year there are an estimated 250 million
cases of malaria, resulting in nearly one million deaths

 

To learn more about how to donate a net, visit our NetsforLife page.