When I think about the Homes' founding, I am reminded of our connection to our country's Civil War. A very large number of the 630,000 men killed were Methodists. This in turn, left thousands of widows and fatherless children. The Methodist Church in Pennsylvania established a home for widows in Philadelphia, setting a precedent. The Homes' mission reflects a social consciousness and stewardship, active to this day.

It could be a widow, or your grandfather and grandmother. Regardless of family association, every resident has the security of the Fellowship Fund. We've made and kept this promise that no resident will be asked to leave because of inability to pay, even in the current economy.

The Homes distributes $2 million in charitable care and $1 million in capital improvements annually to benefit residents. At any time, approximately 25 percent of our residents receive some level of financial assistance. We can only do this because of generous and loyal donors—people like you.

I invite you to stand behind this promise by clicking "donate" or mail a donation (payable to UMHNJF or United Methodist Homes of New Jersey Foundation) to 3311 Route 33, Neptune, NJ 07753. Thank you!

Ray C. Minor
Vice President Advancement