Neighborhood Philanthropy: Interfaith Compassion Ministry

Oxford is host to some wonderful non-profit organizations that provide for our community in so many ways. We want to provide a glimpse of these organizations each month. Interfaith Compassion Ministry (ICM) is our community’s primary agency that assists homeless people by providing counseling, temporary housing, food, and stabilization in new living arrangements. Since September 1999, ICM has been serving our community with Lena Wiley, their fantastic Executive Director, as the woman behind it all.

Lena Wiley, Executive Director

The Interfaith Compassion Ministry is a non-denominational, community support agency dedicated to helping residents in need with utility costs, rent payments and repairs. People come to ICM when they face crisis situations, whether they’re homeless, have substance abuse problems, need legal counsel or simply need help making ends meet. It seems fitting that Lena would serve as the contact and administrative leader. She IS ICM. She knows the people that are hurting. She has created a trust within the community that goes well beyond what most Executive Directors do. She also works well with other non-profit agencies in Lafayette county. If ICM cannot help, she will call on others in the community to help.

Lena recently shared, “Since the pandemic, we’ve seen an increase in homelessness, an increase in domestic violence and an increase in child abuse. Our number one need is rental assistance with utility assistance coming in a close second. We are in desperate need of financial assistance and donations.” The Interfaith Compassion Ministry has 36 board members (representing 36 local area churches). They meet monthly. Donations are received from local church congregations and individuals can send donations directly to ICM by mailing to 1918 University Avenue, Oxford, MS 38655.

We are so grateful to Lena Wiley and her dedication to leading the Interfaith Compassion Ministry that helps some of our most vulnerable residents in Lafayette county. Please consider donating or becoming more involved through your church. Contact Lena directly at 901-487-6664 or 662-236-3482 or lena_wiley@bellsouth.net.