The Deacon s Fund has been for many years our first line of defense against the ravages of poverty for local families. Beginning in 1998, the Deacon s Fund is being carefully administered by trained AIM volunteers. It was established to assist families and individuals who have a proven need for temporary rent assistance or mortgage support, all designed to keep people in their own homes. AIM coordinates the social ministries of many local churches and works to maximize resources and prevent duplication of effort.
Applicants are carefully pre-screened and counseled.
Most cases are true emergencies that threaten the break-up of families due to the loss of work, illness or some unforeseen tragedy. In summer and winter, AIM manages and disburses money locally for fuel assistance programs, helping people stay cool in summer and warm in the coldest of winters. AIM is managed by an independent board of directors nominated by the contributing churches. After his phase, each family makes a transition to permanent housing while Hope House continues to serve as a center for on-going support. As clients become independent and move out from Hope House to new housing, they take all their household furnishings with them. The Deacon s Local Help Committee holds a furniture donation drive each Spring to replenish the apartments.