Annual Events

A Simple Gesture

Quarterly in March, June, August, and November

LCM’s donation pick-up program called A Simple Gesture makes donating easy and increases inventory at our food pantry. Households throughout the Smith Mountain Lake area donate food, personal care and household cleaning supplies through four quarterly collections. Donations received from A Simple Gesture offer an average annual savings of $25,000 for LCM.

HOW IT WORKS:

  • Community members register as donors and/or volunteer drivers.

  • LCM provides each donor with a reusable bag and a wish list of desired items.

  • Donors fill their bags and leave them outside their doors on predetermined days.

  • Volunteer drivers pick up the bags (leaving an empty bag and wish list for the next pick-up) and deliver the bags to LCM. In neighborhoods where no driver is available, donors may drop off bags at Lake Christian Ministries or Capps Home Building Center.

  • LCM volunteers sort, store, and distribute the food and supplies, sharing the surplus with other pantries if needed.

SML Gives is a one-day, online giving event held each March to benefit nonprofits in the Smith Mountain Lake region. The goal is to provide nonprofit organizations in Bedford and Franklin counties the opportunity to fundraise, gain exposure and build relationships, while bringing the community together to make a big impact. Each year, Lake Christian Ministries benefits as one of the SML Gives participating charities. To donate to LCM through SML Gives, go to smlgives.org in March each year.

SML Gives

Annually in March

For families facing the financial strain of back-to-school expenses, LCM provides supplies for children from Kindergarten through high school. Pencils, pens, notebooks, paper, backpacks, and grade-specific supplies are donated or purchased with funds allocated for this meaningful project.

School Supply Drive

Annually in July and August

SML Walk to End Poverty

Annually in September

A Child’s Christmas

Annually in November and December

The SML Walk to End Poverty takes place each September at Smith Mountain Lake State Park and raises critical funds to support Lake Christian Ministries' vital services for local individuals and families in need. Whether you prefer walking or running, alone or with a team, all are welcome to participate. Let's step forward together, making strides toward a poverty-free community. To register or donate, go to smlwalktoendpoverty.com.

Children up to age 16 may be registered to receive clothing, toys, and other gifts during the Christmas season. Community-wide donations contribute to making this celebration truly special. Angel Trees scattered around the Smith Mountain Lake area display numerous personalized needs, and funds dedicated to A Child's Christmas ensure that every child, regardless of economic background, experiences the joy of receiving gifts during the holiday season.