INVESTING IN THE COMMUNITY

Jason Burns

INVESTING IN THE COMMUNITY

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ccess Church in Lakeland, Fla., believes that investing in others will make an eternal impact.

In November of 2019, JASON BURNS ’03, ’20 (D.Min.), pastor of Access, announced that the church was paying off more than $1.62 million of medical bills for local low-income residents. The church worked with RIP Medical Debt, a New York-based company, to determine the number of bills owed by low-income families in Lakeland. The idea transpired from a member of the church who saw the need for helping those with medical bills they could not afford.

“We believe that generosity is the best way to live. We like to ask, ‘What will you do that will outlive you?’ It frames the way you think about your money. The goal of all giving should be to invest in something that will have an eternal impact,” said Jason.

This story made national headlines, appearing in NPR, USA Today, CBS This Morning and numerous newspapers across the nation. “Our church was excited to see the story of their generosity inspiring others!” said Jason.

The church was able to pay for the medical bills with the Christmas offering they received in 2018. The contributions they made to the special offering were able to pay off the medical debt of 1,315 families in Lakeland. Each household received a letter from RIP Medical Debt telling them that the bill had been paid and a note that said, “Access Church loves you.” Jason shared how several incredible stories came out of the church’s generosity.

“What will you do that will outlive you?”

“A friend of ours who has struggled with their faith and connection to church had a family member receive a letter. It’s amazing how God works!” said Jason.

Access Church was started by Jason and his wife, LIS (MUNIZZI) ’03, in 2007, with a heart for building a community of believers. Since its founding, the church has been based out of a local high school in Lakeland, but in January of 2020, they announced that they were able to purchase their own building.

“I’m excited to see how this continues to further the way we can love, serve and bless our city,” said Jason.