Mission Partner Update: Powerhouse Ministries

Serving Folsom for nearly 30 years, Powerhouse Ministries is one of Lakeside’s mission partners. Powerhouse helps people in crisis or poverty change their lives and rise above their circumstances. The organization focuses on assisting women and children but provides community resources as well, including its annual Christmas Around Towne.

2020 will mark the sixth year for Christmas Around Towne, which provides a shopping experience for those experiencing financial hardship during Christmas. John Stassi, a longtime Lakeside and Powerhouse board member, says the event benefits adults and kids alike.

“Christmas Around Towne helps parents buy gifts for their whole family and also empowers kids to experience the joy of giving to their parents and siblings,” he said.

Each of the 1,650 guests at Christmas Around Towne receives a voucher to purchase items from various temporary “stores” within Lakeside’s facility, which is once again hosting the event. Lakeside is stocking the toy store again, and twelve other local churches are partnering with Powerhouse to donate items for other stores. 

 This year’s event will need more manpower. Due to the coronavirus, the previous one-day event will now span four days to allow for social distancing. “Powerhouse got creative so they could still provide this wonderful Christmas shopping experience, despite the logistical challenges,” Stassi said. “Powerhouse appreciates Lakeside’s generosity in hosting the event and all the other churches, donations, and volunteers that make it happen.”