FUNDRAISING CAMPAIGN UPDATE & FUNERAL SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT

In Remembrance of Ms. Tika Renae Justice, 38,

victim of the recent house collapse in Hamilton, NJ.

(Hamilton, New Jersey, August 2, 2018) On Monday, July 23, 2018, the life of Ms. Tika Justice, the mother of two young women (ages 20 and16) was tragically cut short when their house collapsed in Hamilton, New Jersey on South Broad Street. This tragic event has dramatically changed the lives of her family forever.  They have lost everything, therefore, something had to be done to address their dire needs.

In response, Hamilton Township Mayor, Kelly Yaede, reached out to Dr. Joseph E. Woods, Pastoral Servant Leader of the Saint Phillips Baptist Church and Angelo Hall, Executive Director of the John O. Wilson Center to coordinate a clothing drive to assist the family in crisis. As a result, over 138 large bags of clothing, shoes, and everyday household items have been collected, in addition to gift cards and checks to benefit the family.

While assisting the family in their time of need, Pastor Woods was informed that Ms. Tika Justice, who worked for the State of New Jersey under temporary employment status, did not live beyond her probationary period and was not entitled to pension or benefits. He then began to shift his efforts to collecting the necessary funds to pay for the funeral since her family did not have the means to pay for her funeral expenses due to her unexpected death.

On Monday, July 30^th, a press conference was held at Saint Phillips Baptist Church with Dr. Woods and Mayor Kelly Yaede with a set goal to raise $10,000 by Wednesday, August 1, 2018.  By the end of the day Wednesday, the goal was met and the campaign has generated $15,442.84 and is still growing.  After funeral expenses are paid, 100% of the remaining balance will help with any medical bills, housing needs, college aide, and further support needed for the family.

In addition, Saint Phillips has opened the doors of their church to host the final farewell to Ms. Justice at no expense.  The Final Service will be held at the Saint Phillips Baptist Church, 445 Parkinson Avenue at Saint Phillips Drive, Hamilton, NJ 08610 on Saturday, August 4, 2018.  There will be a Public Viewing from 9:00am to 10:30amand the Celebration of Life will commence at 11:00am with Pastor Woods officiating and delivering the eulogy.

“Because of God and the generous people of Hamilton Township and beyond, Ms. Tika Justice can be laid to rest with dignity, and her daughters can be afforded an opportunity to reflect upon their mother and gain hope and strength through an honorable service. This could not have happened without the prayers, love, and compassion of their extended family – the community.  Our hearts and prayers will continue for this family following his devasting tragedy. “Woods commented.

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For more information and to further help this family, please contact the church or administrative office of

Pastor Joseph E. Woods @ 609.394.3887 or 609.543.2244.