Decatur Emergency Assistance Ministry programs.
Services from Decatur Emergency Assistance Ministry can provide basic needs such asfree food or clothing to more limited, one time financial help for bills or paying rent in a crisis, or they can provide basic health supplies. The charity, also known as DEAM, uses money raised from the community in an effort to help the low income and people facing unemployment or a hardship in DeKalb County. While the resources are limited, and there are strict application processes in place, support may be available from time to time.
When seeking help, people should come prepared with proof of income, identification of all household members, and proof of expenses as well as the hardship. If a client has an eviction notice or disconnect, then bring it. Be prepared for an intake and assessment process as well, as all financial aid and other resources are very limited.
Get free stuff from Decatur Emergency Assistance Ministry (DEAM)
The main objective of the Food Pantry in DeKalb County is to ensure no one in the community goes without some type of healthy, affordable food. There is also a focus on the elderly as well as families with young children, and students can also get help during the summer breaks or holiday periods.
The Decatur Emergency Assistance Ministry receives donated groceries or canned groceries from many sources, including restaurants and businesses. This community agency, in collaborative effort with churches, local businesses, schools, generous individuals, and civic groups ensures that the food pantry will always be able to meet this fundamental need to prevent hunger.
In a crisis, the surplus food boxes are packed by volunteers, and the items are made available up to five days per week to the low income. The goods will also be shared with people or moderate income families that need it. It general, DEAM will provide three nutritious meals per day for all qualifying members of the home. The non-profit will do its best to follow a policy of feeding anyone in need, and they do their best to deny no one. The pantries are at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, Decatur, Georgia 30030 as well as Avondale First Baptist Church at 47 Covington Road.
Low income families can also work with DEAM staff on getting benefits for themselves or their children or family. The options include SNAP food stamps, USDA breakfast or lunch programs for students, WIC vouchers, surplus commodities for the elderly and more. The aim is to help feed the low income and poor. More on getting emergency food stamps.
Free clothing is passed out, often from the food pantries mentioned above. The non-profit DEAM charity will give families either gently used or new clothing. There are supplies and attire for both children from low income families and adults, and examples may be summer and winter wear such as coats. The Avondale First Baptist Church in DeKalb is a main distribution center.
Parents will also be supported by the Decatur Emergency Assistance Ministry case management process. They will learn about local resources such as affordable day care in the region, or access WIA or other job training programs. There is also general life skills classes and support services from the non-profit.
The Senior Meal Service is another option for preventing hunger. It provides a free hot, nutritious lunch meal to the elderly as well as senior citizens and their spouses several days per week to supplement their nutritional needs. There may be meals served in a congregate setting (as well as social activities held) or low cost home-delivery for home bound clients.
The Holiday Program helps by offering free Christmas presents, toys, or clothing for their family. Individuals in need may either be adopted for the holidays by a generous member of the community, or they may be able to shop in the thrift store. In addition to helping fill this need in our community, Decatur Emergency Assistance Ministry also provides generous individuals, non-profit organizations, businesses and churches an opportunity to experience the joy of being a Holiday Helper for their neighbors.
Rent, electric bills, and financial aid from DEAM
Direct Emergency Financial Assistance is a core function, but it is limited. When possible, the agency will attempt to assist low income families as well as working poor residents with their short term basic survival needs, and this may be food, housing, or medications. They may also give referrals to community action agency programs. This is only offered in limited cases when people can't provide for themselves. Learn more on and find a community action program.
The resident in crisis needs to also take initiative on gaining stability, and they should call to schedule an appointment and learn what documentation they will need to bring to the office. Any type of help for rent or other expenses may also be provided in the form of a no interest loan.
Another key component of any type of Emergency Financial Assistance from DEAM paid out is education, advocacy, referrals and encouraging able bodied clients to give back by helping or making donations in the future. There is help for seniors and families with young children in the Dectur community that they are valued and ensures that their basic needs are met, such as with emergency medicine, food and clothing, or heat and utilities. These funds often prevent homelessness.
As far as utility utility or water bill assistance, this is paid out by appointment only. Decatur Emergency Assistance Ministry can be reached at (404)373-2300, and all money paid out is first come and served.
The youth can get help and guidance as well. The goal is to provide support to DeKalb County children living in poverty, and this can build their self-esteem and get them on the right path. Programs components include referrals to YMCA Summer Day Camp, Holiday Activities (Easter Baskets), free Back to School supplies, and even Christmas gifts and Toys.
Medical services and free health care equipment
Some residents that lack funds or adequate health insurance may be given a voucher to acquire critical life sustaining prescription drugs and may get referrals to community clinics to address limited emergency dental care to eliminate pain. Coordinating medical care in DeKalb is another function of Decatur Emergency Assistance Ministry.
DEAM is also a resource for the low income and uninsured to use for referrals. As the charity is aware of the need for affordable medical care, OB/GYN services, eye exams and more. Staff direct patients to the resources they need. Find free clinics for health care in GA.
Basic Health Supplies may be provided with the Emergency Food. This will include feminine hygiene supplies, free soap, toothbrushes, toothpaste, toilet paper, and diapers for infants. All of this depends on donation levels at the DEAM Ministry.
Find how to apply for assistance from Decatur-area Emergency Assistance Ministry
For more information, Holy Trinity Episcopal Church is the main office of Decatur-area Emergency Assistance Ministry. The address is 515 E. Ponce de Leon Ave., and phone is 404.373.2300.
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