Serving those in need in the San Lorenzo Valley and Scotts Valley

VCUM is a Volunteer, Non-Profit Organization (501-C3, ID: 77-0163322)

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Valley Churches United Missions

Annette Marcum - Director - Volunteer

Awards Received By Valley Churches United Missions

Valley Churches United Missions (VCUM) is a grassroots organization. It was originated under the name St. Andrews Outreach during the torrential valley rains, flooding and Love Creek slide of 1982. Annette Marcum coordinated and led efforts at St. Andrews Episcopal Church in Ben Lomond. A program was established to provide direct aid and assistance to victims of the flooding and other storm damage in the area. During the disaster, Marcum realized that low-income residents in the valley had many unmet needs. In 1985, under her leadership, area churches and community volunteers came together to create a food distribution site for valley area residents in need. In 1987, a coalition of county government and community organizations was formed to establish the original Valley Resource Center, a permanent food pantry.

In 1989 the Loma Prieta earthquake ravaged the valleys and VCUM’s disaster program again provided immediate direct aid assistance to the victims. Over $800,000 was raised for relief with a 1% administration cost.

Now almost 30 years after the 1982 disaster Valley Churches United Missions continues its “Missions of Love” in its permanent site in Ben Lomond. The mission has raised and distributed eleven million dollars in assistance. Valley Churches United Mission’s programs reach out to over 400 families each month. The mission provides emergency food, crisis rent, utilities, medical, school supplies and disaster relief. The 2005 Valley Christmas Project touched 11,095 lives in Santa Cruz County. The Mission operates 99% with volunteers. Annette Marcum continues as the Director, Linda S. Lovelace is the only paid staff. The Mission serves neighbors in need in the San Lorenzo Valley and Scotts Valley. Many, many volunteers have contributed countless hours over the years resulting in a thriving community outreach agency.

We salute Valley Churches United Missions for their 31 years of service to our Community.