Deaconate Fund Financial Aid Policy

Title: Deaconate Fund Financial Aid Policy
Oversight Board: Mayflower Board of Deacons
Effective Date: 1-26-22
Version Number: 3
Policy Statement: It is the policy of Mayflower Church diaconate that funds donated to the diaconate be distributed responsibly to those in true need, with church members receiving highest priority, then the needs of others in our community and other ministries that minister to the needs of the poor.
Purpose: The purpose of this Financial Aid Policy is to define the process and criteria used by the diaconate to distribute the monies donated by the congregation to the diaconate fund.
Description
Each request or recommendation for assistance is considered by the diaconate. Every case is considered on its own merits.
Church members and attendee friends are a priority.
Financial assistance will be for essential needs such as food, utilities, medical, vehicle gas or repair, or clothing.
Repeat help may be provided to the chronically poor, while also assisting them in identifying other available sources of help.
The repeated need for help may require financial counseling or budget assistance before further assistance is provided.
Financial assistance for community members not associated with Mayflower church will be normally be limited to food or gas debit cards.
A Deacons’ Fund Request form must be completed
The individual will meet with a member of the diaconate to discuss their situation and provide us an opportunity for witness of the gospel and prayer.
In general, a community member will be helped once a year.
Forms of financial assistance include:
Bags of essential groceries
Food or gas gift cards
Payment a specific bill
Rarely, give undesignated money