Crosslines Looks to Community Support as Summer Needs Grow

Summer is a busy time for families, but for many households already struggling to make ends meet, it can also be one of the hardest seasons of the year.

Jaimie Trussell, president and CEO of Crosslines Community Outreach, said the extra cost of feeding children who are home from school all day begins to add up quickly. By the time August arrives, many families are also trying to stretch their budgets to cover back-to-school supplies.

"Those pressures really come together in August," Trussell said.

To help meet the growing need, Crosslines is launching its annual "Pack the Lunch" campaign. During August, every dollar donated will receive an additional 50 cents through a matching gift provided by Thrivent. Trussell said the campaign helps keep pantry shelves stocked as demand continues to rise.

Crosslines also continues its longtime partnership with the Ozark Empire Fair, a relationship that has lasted for more than 20 years. The fairgrounds host Crosslines' annual Christmas distribution, and throughout the year the fair donates extra food that is shared with families in need.

The organization is also one of the sponsors of the Christian concert held on the first Sunday evening of the fair. Free tickets are available through the Crosslines front desk.

For Trussell, the fair is about more than rides and entertainment.

"It's a reminder that we're one community," she said. "You see people from every walk of life coming together."

The fair also holds special memories for her family. Growing up in north Springfield, working at the fair was almost a rite of passage. Her father still works in guest services there, and her son's first job was helping care for camels in one of the animal exhibits.

"He definitely has the best first-job story," Trussell said with a laugh.

While many people know Crosslines for providing food, Trussell said the ministry's work reaches much further. The organization also offers school resources, tutoring, literacy programs, housing assistance and other services designed to help families become more financially stable.

"The number one thing I hear is, 'I had no idea,'" Trussell said. "We're here to help people meet their basic needs and move toward a more secure future."

Those interested in volunteering, donating or learning more about Crosslines can visit crosslines.org or call 417-862-3586.