The congregation of Eastminster Presbyterian Church voted unanimously to pledge $250,000 to the proposed Midlands Transition Center for the homeless in Columbia Sunday morning, August 10.

This church, in eastern Columbia, had been reviewing its financial needs and outlook with an eye to retiring the debt on its popular Christian Life Center, which provides exercise and recreation facilities for the community. The project of a capital funds campaign coincided with the community plan for an all- purpose shelter serving the homeless in Columbia, and Eastminster's elders and deacons approved a goal of $250,000 contribution to the shelter.

The Rev. Amos DiSasa, associate pastor of Eastminster, serves on the task force which developed the building program. The facilities, to be placed at the corner of Main and Elmwood Streets in downtown Columbia, will provide transitional housing, emergency shelter space, a drop- in center and dining space, where citizens in need of community care can find help and relief.

The site is available with no need of zoning changes. The present Salvation Army facilities at that location must be demolished because of mold and asbestos problems and general deterioration.

The Rev. Dr. Olin Whitener, interim pastor at Eastminster, says, "What a difference we will make for the Lord and those he loves as we commit $250,000 to the Midlands Transition Center. People of all ages who have no place to call home will feel the compassionate presence of the Lord in and through our faithful generosity. What a great way to prepare for our next senior pastor."