The Clinton organization hopes to continue its mission

CLINTON, Iowa (KWQC) – An organization that has served the community in Clinton and beyond for decades is experiencing budget shortages.

Victory Center Ministries has been in existence for 34 years. The impacts of the pandemic, increased needs and more make it difficult to follow up.

People in the organization who are not accommodated or who need a hot meal twice a day.

“You can always know when the food is good… no one is talking,” Ron McKinney said with a laugh.

McKinney arrived at the center in December 2020 looking for a fresh start. Thanks to the ministry, he used his talents in the kitchen and is now employed as a chef at the center.

“It was a great ride, I can tell you. It has been a learning journey for me… a learning journey, ”he said.

Recent difficulties, however, are having an impact on the operations of the organization.

Executive director and founder Ray Gimenez said they were in financial trouble.

“Donations have decreased … our services continue and they become even more important because the need is greater,” said Gimenez. “There is a threat that the lights will be out. We had a threat last week actually, you know, and I don’t want to go through that again.

The organization was also affected by the loss of rental space it was able to use for free in the YMCA building in Clinton in October 2020.

“We were there almost 11 years. We had 28 people, half of whom were disabled. They were paying us very reasonable rent and we used that money, that cash flow, to help cover the running costs of the Victory Center over these years, ”Gimenez said. “Now we don’t have the cash that we normally have between $ 80,000 and $ 90,000 a year, we don’t have any and that’s what has created this financial crisis right now. “

They seek the support of the community to continue their mission.

“Every morning I wake up and thank God for still being there… it’s not a dream,” said Nicole, a woman who stays at the shelter.

Nicole came to the women’s shelter a week and a half before having her baby boy. It has been several months now and the services provided by the organization have been a boon to her.

“For the first time in the past 5 years, I don’t mind getting kicked out on the street. I am not afraid [someone’s’] will hurt me. I am no longer afraid of it. I actually get up and yes there are still these bumps here and there but I’m going somewhere… well, ”she said.

Nicole is currently working on her high school equivalency diploma and driver’s license.

Faith-based ministry has served both Nicole and McKinney.

“My will to keep moving forward is so strong right now. That’s why I’m moved, “said Nicole,” Victory Center Ministries has been so instrumental in helping me get back on my feet and make sure I know I’m worth it, and anyone who helps me will know. too.”

“I’ve always had a plan to get out of here, but now it’s like I love being here to learn more about the Christian walk and what it really means,” McKinney said.

The organization hopes to keep the legacy of 34 years to help more people along the way.

“We desperately need to tell people and our donors and people who really love what we are doing to help us in this time of crisis,” said Gimenez. “We must continue to survive. We are 34 years old and I want to come to 35 years old.

Anyone interested in making a donation can do so at www.victorycenter.com or send their donation to PO Box 1694 Clinton, IA 52732.

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