Our Homeless and Food Distribution Program provides the bridge to help those in need access to resources that could prevent homelessness, hunger, and adversity.
This support is for those who need help accessing community resources and support necessary to live sustainable and thriving lives. We receive phone calls, referrals from other agencies, email requests, and website requests for assistance.
There are numerous needs our clients face, including:
• Lack of food and clothing;
• Lack of shelter leading to homelessness or displacement;
• Lack of medical care, including mental health treatment;
• Inability to adequately access benefits (Medicaid, SNAP, Temporary Assistance and Veteran’s Administration, Social Security Administration);
• Inability to pay bills leading to utility shut off, eviction, etc.;
• Personal hygiene supplies;
• Lack of transportation to medical and other appointments;
• Cleaning supplies;
• A higher level of care is needed, but the client needs help to advocate for him or herself.
The Resource Request Form we use is a written streamlined approach to identify exactly what the client needs (such as those stated above). Our approach is effective in helping our neighbors in need because we stay with them throughout the process, ensuring their needs are being met.
This approach is practical because there is a single point of entry that captures our client’s needs and a multitude of information gathering that will help end homelessness and hunger worldwide.
In addition, this research-based assessment tool helps our organization identify each client’s unique needs so that we can connect those in need to the right resources. Because of these services, we can develop an understanding of the conditions under which we serve and can provide solutions to prevent homelessness and hunger.
The support provided is in the form of financial assistance, temporary housing, and monthly food distribution.
• Prevention – Help families already housed to stay housed by providing financial assistance for past due rent for up to 3 months, depending on available funding/budget.
Program eligibility plus proof of stable income, proof of financial hardship, and a notice from current Landlord.
• Temporary Housing – Help unsheltered families find temporary housing via referrals for temporary shelter, safe parking, and motel vouchers.
Program eligibility plus proof of displacement (notice to vacate, etc.) and proof of financial hardship.
• Food Distribution Program – The program will run once every 30 days at the N.O.W. office, the same weekday of every month (excluding holidays).