GULF SHORES, Ala. — The Christian Service Center, a United Way Agency, has received a grant from the ExxonMobil Foundation.

ExxonMobil supports programs targeted to worldwide health issues because it believes that good health is a springboard to opportunity, achievement and development.

ExxonMobil also supports the individual volunteer services of the employees and family members.

This grant was possible because of the volunteer efforts of Calvin Hanson, a spouse of a retired ExxonMobil employee.

The grant helps meet the growing demand for assistance of local families who are in financial need.  It generates basic food and emergency services.

Also, during the past two months, Peace Lutheran Church in Gulf Shores has received cash donations from Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ (LCMC) churches across the country with the request that the money go to help victims of the recent oil spill on the Gulf Coast.

 An independent committee of Peace members decided to give some of the money to the Christian Service Center and recently presented the center with a $2,600 check.

The Christian Service Center is a non-profit 501(c)3 corporation formed by the Pleasure Island Ministerial Association in 1981, which provides confidential services to local needy families living in the Fort Morgan, Orange Beach and Gulf Shores area.

The successful CSC food pantry program and emergency aid program are supported through the generosity of area churches, businesses, schools, service clubs and organizations, local merchants, restaurants and individual donors.

In a time when burdens may feel overwhelming due to the local economic condition, the Christian Service Center offers hope and guidance.

The Christian Service Center is operated by trained volunteers who regularly give their time as a reflection of the concern for their community, Monday through Friday at 317 Dolphin Ave., in Gulf Shores.