Coastal church hosts families of four officers killed in the line of duty

NORTH MYRTLE BEACH—Trinity United Methodist Church, through its Miracle of Hope at the Beach program, recently hosted the families of four officers killed in the line of duty. They were Trinity’s guests during the months of August and September.

Each family receives one week in an oceanfront condo provided for them absolutely free. Along with this, they are given $500-$700 in cash for expenses, plus vouchers supplied by local businesses.

The program has provided this gift for the past three years. Any family of a slain or permanently disabled first responder is eligible. Right now it is offered mainly to the first responders of South Carolina and nearby North Carolina. However, Trinity hopes to expand it at some point, as well as assist any other church or organization that would like start a program of their own.

This year, Trinity hosted the families of Jackson Winkeler (Florence), Dale Hallman (Saluda), Terrence Carraway (Florence) and Farrah Turner (Florence).

The program has been solely supported by the members and visitors of Trinity UMC. All workers are volunteers. One hundred percent of all donations go to provide for these families of the first responders, whom the church called “our true heroes.”

Trinity also provides meals several times a year for first responders and holds a First Responder Day Celebration every Labor Day on the lawn at the church with a free meal and entertainment.

“We are doing all that we can to serve those who serve us,” said the Rev. Ed Daniel.

To learn more or help the project, write 706 14th Ave. S., North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582, or call 843-272-5236.