This year, Vestry and the Social Justice & Outreach Committee have decided to combine what are usually two efforts—the collection of specific items for donation during the Advent season, through Epiphany, and the donation to a worthy community organization of the collection plates from Christmas Eve and Christmas Day services. Because we will not be able to gather in person for services this year, we are asking all those who would normally feel called to participate in either effort to make their Christmas offering between now and Sunday, January 10. Suicide Prevention of Yolo County has been selected to receive the special plate this year.

Suicide Prevention of Yolo County (SPYC) was founded in 1966 when community members joined together to offer a volunteer-run crisis line to provide immediate telephone support for those at risk of suicide. Today, the crisis line is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and typically provides support to over 5000 callers each calendar year. In addition, SPYC provides targeted support to teens in local high schools with a special curriculum on recognizing the signs of suicide, and offers a support group for those who have lost a loved one to suicide.

If you would like to make a special Christmas donation to SPYC, you may do so by sending a check to St. Martin Episcopal Church, 640 Hawthorn Lane, Davis, CA 95616 and writing in the memo line “Christmas Offering.” You may also donate using the green “GIVE” button on the church website. After you click the “GIVE” button, you will be given an option to select either the “General Fund” or the “Christmas Offering.” Click on Christmas Offering and follow the instructions that are given. Thank you for your support of the mental health needs of our community.

If you or a loved one needs to connect with a crisis counselor, please contact one of the following hotlines:

Davis: 530-756-5000
Woodland/Rural Yolo: 530-666-7778
West Sacramento: 916-372-6565
Toll-Free: 1-888-233-0228