In the vibrant heart of Fort Lauderdale, the United Church of Christ (UCC) stands as a sanctuary of compassion, inclusion, and unwavering service. At the core of its outreach are two powerful initiatives: the Ruth Ministry and the Angel Fund, programs that provide real help and restore dignity to those experiencing homelessness or crisis in Broward County.
One of the most vital lifelines within this ministry is the Ruth Ministry, directed with fierce love and tireless commitment by Pastor Emily Jazombek. Ruth Ministry runs solely on donations from foundations, individuals and organizations. Every Thursday, the church campus transforms into a compassionate action center. Up to 160 people are welcomed not just with a warm meal, but with open arms and services that truly change lives. Ruth Ministry provides hot meals, food items, clothing, shoes, toiletries, eyewear, wheelchairs, walkers, and furniture, as well as bus passes, free haircuts, and assistance with identification forms.
Adding to this remarkable outreach are community partners who show up every Thursday to serve with heart. Broward Health, one of South Florida’s leading healthcare providers, plays a critical role by sending a fully equipped medical bus to the UCC campus each week. This bus offers free healthcare services to anyone in need.
Another indispensable presence is Showering Love, a mobile shower unit that provides on-site showers for the homeless community. Cleanliness is dignity, and this simple but powerful service allows individuals to feel refreshed, respected, and more human in a world that so often dehumanizes them.
These weekly efforts begin with an optional church service, attended by more than 90 individuals seeking not just spiritual nourishment, but community and support. The ministry serves over 8,000 meals annually, and every Thursday is a celebration of compassion, resilience, and the belief that no one should be forgotten.
Angel Fund is supported entirely by donations. Every penny given goes directly to helping those in need — with zero administrative overhead. The fund allows the church to act quickly and meaningfully in moments of crisis, supplying everything from transportation to essential household items, legal and medical support, and more.
Guiding this remarkable church is Reverend Aaron Lauer, a senior pastor with a deep passion for diversity, justice, and service. His leadership has made UCC Fort Lauderdale a place where all are truly welcome. His dedication, alongside that of Pastor Jazombek and their team, has cultivated a culture where people are not only served, but seen, heard, and uplifted.
We would be remiss not to thank Joe Aiken, a tireless advocate and community leader whose efforts have helped shine a light on the church’s life-changing work. Joe’s commitment to connecting people and sharing the stories of hope that come from UCC Fort Lauderdale has made an immeasurable impact.
Bobby Blair is an LGBTQ media pioneer and leader known for his philanthropic work on behalf of the LGBTQ+ community. A Florida native, he lives in Fort Lauderdale with his longtime partner, Brian Neal. Blair was inducted into the GLBT Hall of Fame in 2015.
