Aimed at fostering community support for vulnerable families
Pam Dudding
Contributing writer
Craig County has always been known for “taking care of their own.” A new venture proves this statement to be true with the startup of a program called CarePortal.
CarePortal, an innovative online platform connecting families in need with local churches and community groups, is set to launch in Craig County on Aug. 15 at 11 a.m.
The launch event will take place at Lasterday Market, located at 390 Market Street in New Castle. Light refreshments will be provided.
“CarePortal serves as a bridge between families facing challenges and those willing to offer support, whether it be time, talent, or resources,” C. Jordan Labiosa shared. “The process begins when a child or family in need is identified by someone within social services. Subsequently, each request undergoes a rigorous vetting process conducted by the Department of Social Services in Craig County, ensuring legitimacy and the importance of the assistance to the well-being of the family.
Labiosa explained that once a request is verified, the details are entered into CarePortal and alerts are instantly sent to local responders, primarily churches within close proximity to the need. These churches, having committed to participating in CarePortal, take on the responsibility of promptly evaluating if they can provide the required tangible items, relational support or other forms of assistance.
“For churches seeking additional resources, the platform facilitates connections with local businesses, community groups, and volunteers. This collaborative effort strengthens the community’s ability to offer comprehensive and holistic support to vulnerable families,” Labiosa added.
Lenny Macdonald, co-founder of the Love Thy Neighbor Fund, expressed the significance of CarePortal’s community-oriented approach, saying, “For churches looking to extend their impact beyond their congregation, CarePortal provides a valuable opportunity to connect with local businesses, community groups, and volunteers. This collaborative effort ensures a more comprehensive and holistic response to the needs of our community.”
Labiosa, also the co-founder of the Love Thy Neighbor Fund, emphasized the core mission of CarePortal, stating, “At the heart of CarePortal is the mission to create meaningful connections within the community. By involving local churches and community groups in the process, we are empowering them to be the driving force behind positive change for vulnerable families in Craig County. We hope to build a support network that extends far beyond immediate assistance, providing ongoing encouragement and empowerment.”
The Love Thy Neighbor Fund, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, is covering the annual expenses associated with bringing CarePortal to Craig County.
The organization said its vision aligns with the biblical teaching of loving one’s neighbor as oneself, and it has been actively involved in supporting at-risk families, community beautification projects and providing financial peace classes based on biblical principles.
It was noted that Roanoke County, Botetourt County, Salem and 30 additional Virginia localities already have access to CarePortal and Craig County will be the smallest locality in Virginia with access.
“This expansion marks an important step in creating a compassionate and resilient community, ensuring that vulnerable families receive the help they need to thrive,” they shared.
Organizers are encouraging those with questions about CarePortal to attend the meeting.
