Shechinah Association needs help to settle van loan

The Shechinah Association Johor Bahru is reaching out to the community for assistance in settling the remaining loan on their dependable van.

This vehicle plays a critical role in transporting residents of their halfway house to crucial medical appointments and delivering provisions to the underprivileged across Johor Bahru.

“The van belongs to a company for our use, but it is still under their name,” explained founder and president, James Issachar.

“Unfortunately, the company is winding up, and we need to settle the outstanding loan of RM15,000 for the vehicle ownership to be transferred to us.”

Issachar emphasised, “We need this vehicle; it is vital for us as a charity.”

The van operates around the clock, ensuring essential transportation for the communities served by Shechinah.

A multifaceted approach to helping those in need

While headquartered in the Jalan Abdul Samad area, Shechinah’s reach extends far beyond, serving communities across Johor Bahru.

Established in 2018 by Issachar, the Association operates through five key assistance programs, known as Ministries.

• The Halfway House, providing temporary shelter and support on Jalan Sultan Abdul Samad.
• Rural People Assistance, aiding those in remote areas.
• Meals of Hope and Love, offering food to the underprivileged.
• Prayer and Counselling, providing spiritual and emotional support.
• Promoting Skills through Collaboration with Vocational Colleges, enhancing employability.

They also support the B40 community in Kangkar Pulai through a dedicated aid centre.

Shechinah: Helping former inmates and victims of trafficking

Recently, Shechinah has witnessed a rise in requests for accommodation at their halfway house from individuals recently released from prison.

“One of the reasons we established the halfway house was to help youths escape the clutches of gangsterism,” revealed Issachar.

“Somehow, word has reached inmates at the local prison that Shechinah can provide temporary lodgings and support to help them reintegrate into society.”

He clarified, “The increase includes former convicts, but they are not hardened criminals; most were involved in petty crimes or gang activity.”

“We don’t just offer them shelter; we aim to help them find employment and lead normal lives. We are grateful to collaborating companies who provide them with opportunities,” Issachar added.

Shechinah’s reach extends beyond former inmates. They are currently cooperating with the Indian High Commission to facilitate the return of two Indian nationals who were victims of human trafficking.

These individuals were subjected to forced labour and even physical abuse.

Recognition for collaboration and a minor setback

Issachar highlighted that the nearby Hospital Sultanah Aminah (HSA) often recommends patients requiring ongoing medical care to Shechinah.

These individuals do not require hospitalisation but need scheduled checkups or treatments.

In recognition of their longstanding collaboration with HSA, two of Shechinah’s volunteers have been officially recognized under the hospital’s volunteer program.

“This recognition is a great honour for us,” Issachar noted.

Despite the successes of their various programs, Shechinah has encountered a temporary setback in their plan to provide tuition for children from B40 families in Kangkar Pulai.

“Unfortunately, our previous teacher had to step down due to unforeseen personal circumstances,” explained Issachar.

“We are actively searching for a replacement, especially since the school year has already begun. We understand this disruption and are working diligently to find a solution as soon as possible.”

Follow this link to donate to Shechinah Association: https://sokong.org/beneficiaries/shechinah-association-johor-bahru

For more information, please visit https://sokong.org/

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