Secondly , to present the needs and encourage response from the community. Clients are known to us by direct contact, from a concerned neighbor, an agency, a hospital social worker, or a church . Often two or more agencies or ministries join forces. We encourage action by 'ministry friends' in various ways a newsletter, first class letters, faxes, phone calls, and more recently using this web site. See Current Needs.
Financial hardship is often the visible part of a larger problem.
The unspoken elements of the problem often come to light during interviews. Of course, many people are just stuck in a bad place. A senior citizen who is no longer able to work who is getting by on a poverty retirement income. Or a disabled person who literally cannot help himself. The fact gathering interview is carried on in a friendly, informal manner.