It’s spring – and we’re glad about it! As the long-time Executive Director of City Ministries, I want to take a moment to share a significant update for our ministry. I also invite you to visit our YouTube channel, where I’ve recorded a special video series that walks through our beginnings, highlights key moments of growth, and shares some stories that will bring back great memories for many.
Every ministry story is written in seasons – seasons of vision, partnership, service, and growth. At City Ministries, we’ve been blessed to share many of those seasons with Churchome (formerly The City Church), a founding partner whose faith and generosity have been woven into our story for decades.
From the earliest days, the heart of Pastors Wendell and Gini Smith shaped a relationship built on compassion and a shared desire to serve those most in need. They believed community outreach should begin from within the local church – “first in Samaria.” Their vision became our mission: serving others through the strength of the church community. Out of that shared dream, City Ministries was born and sustained through the dedication of so many who believed in it.
Over the years, that partnership – carried forward by Judah and Chelsea Smith and many faithful members of Churchome – helped City Ministries bring care, stability, and hope to countless children and families across the greater Seattle area through a wide range of programs. Through volunteers, financial support, and encouragement, Churchome/City Church stood beside us in some of our most transformative moments. Together, we’ve witnessed lives restored, families strengthened, and communities renewed through Christ-centered love and practical care. That’s a legacy worth celebrating.
Now, as both organizations step into new seasons of ministry, our formal partnership concluded in February 2026. Though this transition marks a new chapter, the foundation built through decades of collaboration will continue to bear fruit in the lives touched by the mission of City Ministries.
We will continue our call to serve through:
- Education: City Kids School (2 years old–Kindergarten) and our partnership with Pursuit Elementary (grades 1-5).
- Foster Care: licensing families, caring for children, and growing programs for youth who age out of the system.
- Rose Hill Cottages: 22 single family homes with a community center with designation of six affordable homes. RHC provides foster parents the opportunity to live in a supportive, mission-centered community.
These cottages beautifully reflect the model we envisioned years ago – faith in action through community. We are grateful for this strong foundation that allows us to continue building partnerships with churches and like-minded organizations in the surrounding community as we continue this exciting year of 2026.
And don’t forget – our annual May Gala is just around the corner! It’s a wonderful evening of celebration, great food, live entertainment, and ways to support our mission through a silent auction and giving opportunities. We still have sponsorship and table opportunities available, as well as space in our program book for ads. [Click here for more information → City Ministries’ 5th Annual Gala]
Thank you for standing with City Ministries. Enjoy this beautiful spring season and may we all continue to move forward in faith together.
“The Lord bless you and keep you;
the Lord make His face shine on you and be gracious to you;
the Lord turn His face toward you and give you peace.”
— Numbers 6:24–26
Dr. Cheryl
