In this week’s article, I wanted to focus on the Emergency Assistance Program (EAP) which is an integral part of our core services. The goal of the EAP program is to keep families and individuals housed – avoiding eviction.  

Columbus is a wonderful town, but it is very hard for the many people who are struggling to get by. Homes and Apartments are not readily available, and the price of the available units is well beyond the reach of many of the people we serve. It puts so many people in a difficult position. 

The EAP program at Love Chapel is available to help clients who need help with rent, utilities, deposits, gas, electric, water, and sewage. Deposits for utilities can also be provided as well. Love Chapel is also acutely aware that there are tax dollars for relief through our taxes and the Township Trustees.  

Many questions come up – how do we determine who we help and how do we make sure Township Resources are used first? How do we ensure we aren’t subsidizing someone’s addictions or vices? All very legitimate questions. 

Our first request is that all clients see their Township Trustee first – this allows the Trustee to examine the situation and aid first. Love Chapel then will step in to see how we can help. We generally require proof of employment or alternate income, a copy of the last 30 day’s bank statement, information about household size, and they fill out a budget sheet with all income and expenses listed. 

Whenever we meet with a client – we examine the budget first – what their position is. Love Chapel is unable to subsidize a client long-term and decisions about income and outflow are important to make first. We then look at resource usage to make sure the client has managed their money well. Lastly, we look at what is needed for them to stay housed and what the Trustee has pledged. 

After all of this, Love Chapel calls the landlord or utility and makes a pledge on behalf of the client. The check is usually written the next week and sent directly to the landlord or utility company. 

One of the common misnomers is that we can provide people with a place to stay. Almost daily we have someone knock on the door wanting us to find them a place to stay. My response is always the same – we are here to provide financial assistance, but they must do the legwork to find the place. 

To support this vital ministry, go to Give to Love Chapel (givebutter.com) and select rent and utility assistance program to directly help support our neighbors!