August 4, 2023: We give thanks for the great week and all of the amazing families and volunteers that made VBC possible! We had over 40 kids, youth and adult volunteers, and explored the teaching of Jesus in Romans 14:19; “So let’s strive for the things that bring peace and the things that build each other up.” This verse taught us that God calls us to be a part of a community – working to bring peace to the world is something that we are all called to do together. We count your family’s presence with us last week as a blessing and we invite you to join us this fall for more opportunities to work for peace and build community together. We hope to see you soon!
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VBC Mission Project supporting Upward Bound House
This year, Vacation Bible Camp will explore the teaching of Jesus in Romans 14:19; “So let’s strive for the things that bring peace and the things that build each other up.” This verse reminds us that God calls us to be a part of a community – and the working to bring peace to the world is something that we are all called to do together.
One way we will do this is through our Mission Project. This year we will be supporting Upward Bound House, an important ministry partner with our church community. In their work over the past 32 years, they have established an extraordinary record of success in addressing family homelessness. Since their inception, they have helped more than 2,500 families including over 4,900 children transition from homelessness to permanent housing. Over 90% of these families were still in their homes more than a year after placement.
Every year our church donates school supplies for the children of Upward Bound House leading up to the new school year and we are excited to continue this important ministry of care for the children.
You can help too! If you would like to donate school supplies, see the list below and bring them on Sunday (July 30th) to Sunday School. Or you can make a donation towards the purchase of school supplies.

Safe Sanctuaries®
First UMC takes the safety of the children and youth very seriously. We follow Safe Sanctuaries® practices, which is our commitment to the physical safety and spiritual growth of all of our children, youth, and adults. Read about our policies
More questions?
Contact Tricia Guerrero, Pastoral Associate to Children and Family Ministries
t.guerrero@santamonicaumc.org
(310) 393-8258 ext. 104