Members of the Cold Spring United Methodist Church spent part of their summer cleaning their closets and assisting prison ministry. They plan a special service on Sunday, Sept. 16, to celebrate the fruits of their labors and learn firsthand about Exodus, the inmate rehabilitation program they’re aiding. Meanwhile, they invite other Philipstown residents to rid their own closets of no-longer-used professional business clothing and likewise help Exodus.
In the effort, participants collect clean, usable business suits and shirts for adult men and women — something that can be worn for a job interview. The apparel can be any size, including larger sizes. It can be brought to the church, located at 216 Main St., Cold Spring, from 2 to 5:30 p.m. on Fridays.
According to Pastor Peggy Laemmel, Exodus, a structured program created by released prisoners for released prisoners, “helps to train inmates leaving prison. Inmates usually spend a year with the program before they are released from prison and then a year with the program as they work on reintegrating back into society.” Designed “to prevent people from falling back into old habits and to change their life direction through classes, counseling, and support,” Exodus has “a 95 percent success rate,” she said.
On Sept. 16 at 10:30 a.m., the church will conduct a dedication service with Exodus members present to accept the clothing and testify to the work of the organization and their own transformations. A pot-luck lunch will follow where everyone can meet the guests.
