The Crisis Ministry of Mercer County has announced the launch of its new name, Arm in Arm. The 501(c)3 non-profit organization, founded in 1980 by Nassau Presbyterian Church and Trinity Church, helps secure the basic needs of food and housing and promotes long-term stability through work training and support.

Today, over 5,000 families are helped each year.

The new name, Arm in Arm, conveys the organization’s collaborative approach to service, its spirit of optimism, and its belief in the possibilities of the future. Executive Director Carolyn Biondi said, “Arm in Arm is a place where people in need find people who want to help. Our new name reflects our respect for the dignity of the people we serve, as well as for their own power in the process of regaining stability. Our tagline ‘Better Together’ expresses our belief that we all benefit when everyone in our community thrives — and that it takes our whole community to ensure that we all thrive. Individuals, congregations, corporations, foundations, schools, and businesses are all critical partners in this effort.”

The mission and programs of Arm in Arm will continue to focus on securing basic needs of food, housing, and work to promote longer-term stability.

Chante H., who recently received a security deposit from Arm in Arm for an apartment for herself and her two children, said that the assistance “has taken a huge burden off of me because now I know that my children have a place to live. I’m so grateful.”

John B., who works two jobs and occasionally receives food from Arm in Arm’s food pantries, said, “I think things are looking up for me, but I’m not quite there yet. But the food is really nutritious, and I just want to say thank you.”

Arm in Arm will celebrate its name change at its annual fall benefit on November 3 at The Frick Chemistry Laboratory Atrium on the campus of Princeton University. Special guest Billy Shore, co-founder and executive director of the national hunger awareness organization Share Our Strength/No Kid Hungry, will keynote the event. Visit www.arminarm.org for more information.

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