Area Churches Together Serving Acts Inc

Programs: The target population served by acts is the disabled, elderly, and working poor with incomes not more than 150% of the federal poverty guidelines. The average combined monthly income is about $925/mo. Acts interviews clients to establish need, income and frequency within service guidelines. During the interview process the interviewer strives to ascertain the client's overall needs and the root causes of the problem. This allows acts to determine the overall assistance that can be provided. We often collaborate with numerous agencies to provide services for overall needs. All of our services are free to qualified persons.

acts provides emergency utility assistance including utility payments, portable fans and oil-filled radiator heaters to families in need of supplemental assistance. When it is established that the client is qualified, utility companies are contacted to verify the bill and overdue status. Payment pledges to the utility companies are made, thus avoiding the client's reconnect fees. The process is completed when acts makes final payment to the utility company, which is done on a monthly basis. Acts guidelines states that utility assistance can be provided once a year unless there is a new crisis or emergency such as loss of job, change in family structure or a serious illness.

acts operates two food programs. The senior food distribution which is one saturday every month serving approximately 400 seniors supplemental food (for a week/21 meals). Many seniors are living on less than $800/mo. And may be deficient in food, medicine and housing expenses. The food pantry is open 5 days a week and is serving clients that meet income and program guidelines. The clothes closet is open 5 days a week and is available to clients that meet income guidelines and are in need of clothing. Our program guidelines state that clothing can be provided up to 4 times a years, typically during a seasonal climate changes.