Assistance programs in Alleghany, Ashe, and Wilkes County.
Blue Ridge Opportunity Commission - This community action agency supports all low income and struggling individuals in the three county area. The Blue Ridge Opportunity Commission provides a wide range of assistance program and resources that include crisis intervention to provide financial assistance with offering free food, clothing, and utility and fuel bills for low-income families.
Weatherization is also offered for the homes for the elderly and low-income families. They also offer assistance with management of funds and budgeting for low-income families, including providing such information as debt management plans. They also now offer Head Start, and are trying to provide scholarships. All assistance is limited and conditions apply in order to get help. the main office is in Sparta North Carolina. (336) 372-7284.
The community action agency is also known as BROC. Not only do they support Wilkes County, but other areas are assisted too such as Ashe. This non-charity organization provides assistance for the unmet needs of the elderly, low-income clients, the unemployed and dislocated workers. Clients often come from Wilkes County and the surrounding area.
The non-profit provides financial assistance and cash grants to clients to prevent disconnection of power and fuel as well as rent help to address eviction notices. Or there may be money for security deposits or even loans given out. Also assists with providing prescription medicines, free food and other emergency services to those in need. Dial 667-7174, or more on Blue Ridge Opportunity Commission.
Care Connection - Offers information on non-profits and government programs, and offers referral services to those in need of assistance with any kind of crises. Works in conjunction with all human services agencies and charities within Wilkes County to refer people in need to the best sources of assistance, including government programs. 667-2273.
Samaritan's Kitchen of Wilkes - The mission of this charity is to provide food. Methods used are the client choice pantry program, the Back Pack Program for school children and the Christmas Box Program called Project Joy. Phone 838-5331.
Haywood Christian Ministry - This is a community clinic that can provide low cost, and maybe even possibly free, health care to the low income, patients with limited or no health insurance, and others who need emergency aid. Numerous doctors, nurses, and other medical professionals provide their time and services to the health care center. Waynesville North Carolina based. 456-4838.
Smart Start/Wilkes Family Central - The agency helps people find jobs, among other services. The assistance program provides job skills training, adult high school/GED classes, money management and debt reduction classes, literacy training, parenting skills, childcare and transportation to families. Work with a professional to get help finding and affording childcare with scholarships for families seeking jobs and entering new jobs. 838-0977.
The Salvation Army - This is always a good place to call for advice and assistance. Counselors can often times direct people to programs and resources they. may be able to help them make it through an emergency. For example, learn about federal government and North Carolina assistance programs. From time to time the Salvation Army may also be able to provide individuals limited financial assistance with such expenses as rent, housing expenses, energy bills, medications, free food, and much more.
There are two Salvation Army locations in the region. They both support residents in Wilkes, Ashe, as well as Alleghany County regions. There are also free items and basic needs, which may include hot meals year round (including the holidays), winter clothes, furniture, and Christmas toys as well as back to school supplies. Or get substance abuse counseling or placement into housing. For information, try the Ashe and Wilkes County Salvation Army assistance programs.
Manna Food Bank - They work closely with dozens of food banks and pantries that are located in western North Carolina. They are committed to providing food, groceries, and other forms of non-financial aid and support to anyone who needs help, with a focus on the low income. Telephone - 299-3663.
OnTrack Financial Education & Counseling - This is a non-profit that offers a wide variety of financial counseling and advice to clients. Most are low cost or free. Some of the services offered include below. Call them at 800-737-5485.
- Debt management and settlement - Work with a counselor to learn how to reduce your credit card or medical debts, including lower interest rates and waive fees.
- Bankruptcy counseling - Learn when to file bankruptcy, and learn about the process.
- Financial education and budgeting - Work with a professional to learn about ways to get back on track with your finances, develop a budget, and get information on payday lending laws and alternatives. Click here for more information on payday loans.
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