My Nonprofit Reviews

I used to be a volunteer for an organization close to ACTS and knew the food pantry and emergency assistance was available. Years ago I was working a part-time minimum wage job and brought my children with me to ACTS. Once I arrived, there was a line to get in. We patiently for the doors to open. My eldest played with two other children with the assortment of toys provided.

I was met with compassion by the Emergency Assistance worker and she was informative. My husband's income put us right above the poverty line so, even if I quit my job, we would not qualify for assistance. I had an electric bill due and groceries needed rest of the month. The worker told me my electric bill would have to be past-due before they could help me. She explained that they get money on Mondays and by Wednesday morning, the funds were gone. I received a one-time food pantry voucher for that day to help with groceries and 2 clothing vouchers good for six months.

I felt too guilty using the clothing vouchers for the local thrift store as I did not want to take from those who were truly in need. We needed food and were desperate for diapers, so I was thankful for the generous amount of food we were given. ACTS provided me with 12 diapers, enough for one day, and I was grateful as I did not know I would receive any. ACTS provided us with: toilet paper, bubble bath, vegetables, frozen venison, milk, condiments, sandwiches, bread, and pound cake. There had to have been 100 items. I was overwhelmed with choices and they even accommodated my vegetarian needs. I assumed food pantries only gave nonperishable items like boxed and canned goods, I had no idea we would get household items as well as meat, dairy, and produce. It was a humbling experience for our time of need.

I came back once our electric bill was past-due and they explained that the churches are the ones to provide the funding. The Emergency Assistance worker let me know that those in need that qualified would be given a number and then the assigned churches would provide them with the funding for the past due bills. Each qualified person had to bring proof of identity including a government i.d. and the past-due bill with their name on it. I had to provide W-2s and pay stubs for myself and my husband along with our i.d.s.

Things have come full circle as I now work for ACTS. I am still learning all the amazing things our non-profit has to offer our community, as well as the impact we are making nationwide. The experience of being in need has helped me know how to help others today who call for financial assistance and need resources. I cannot be prouder of where I work and I look forward to continue to grow with ACTS.