Thomas Wood Emergency Assistance Fund

Often times, people in crisis need hope that someone cares and sympathizes with their situation. They need a financial “bail-out package” not of billions, but more like hundreds. State and local agencies provide temporary financial aid, but they are few, focused, filled with red tape, and very time consuming.

The Emergency Assistance Fund began as a memorial to a man from our own community. His family wanted this fund to perpetuate Tom’s life-style of a quick response to personal crises. Since its inception, other donors have come forward to contribute to a large range of needs. In the summer of 2008, one family experienced huge medical bills and friends wanted to support them through this Emergency Assistance Fund. Thousands were given to help at a time of need. When the earthquake hit Peru, donations of over $1,200 came in that were directed to emergency aid in that country. At the start of 2009 the United Way launched a “Neighbor-to-Neighbor” support program. The Center received $12,000 funding to help others with emergency needs. These funds were distributed over the first three months of 2009. In all, over $43,000 in directed benevolent giving has been issued through this emergency fund.

Beyond the financial benefit, the fund is a means to call people to look to God as their ultimate source of support and comfort. We use each opportunity to point people to the hope they can find through God and His Word.