FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE

Our primary goal continues to focus on keeping our clients in their own homes. When funds are available, the Center accepts applications the first Tuesday of the month between 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Generally, 300 – 400 applications are received on that day. The Center receives nearly 2,000 calls a month seeking help and people drop by the Center every week anticipating instant relief of their financial woes.

Presently, the downturn in our economy appears to be the foremost reason people are seeking assistance. So many people have lost their jobs or find it difficult to obtain a job due to other barriers existing in their lives. Others who are faced with crisis situations, such as illness, disabilities, death in the family, etc. also apply for our financial services.

When funds are available, the Case Manager, Eileen Parker, selects between 75–100 people monthly to assist. Criteria for the Center’s Financial Assistance Program includes:

• Resident of Fulton, DeKalb County
  
• Lived in apartment or house at least four months
  
• Pay at least $150 towards rent without public housing assistance

Individuals approved to receive financial help must meet with the Case Manager, must attend Financial Planning and Nutrition classes once a week for a month. Classes are offered Monday morning, Thursday morning or Thursday evening and are conducted by volunteers.

Persons unemployed who are not disabled must meet with an Employment Specialist and attend an Employment Workshop conducted by the Center’s Employment Coordinator, Jim Fleming.