Eastern Henrico FISH emergency financial aid and support services.
Programs from Eastern Henrico FISH can help the working poor with their basic needs. There is assistance for seniors, immigrants, and the less fortunate in the county as well as Richmond. While the agency, which is made up of churches and congregations, will use donations or money raised from fund raisers and other sources for certain expenses, such as rent or food, much of the support will be in the form of referrals to other government benefits or local charities. The goal is to better coordinate the delivery of emergency assistance to low-income families.
Community Outreach is a service that can connect those in need, regardless of their age or religion, with those people or agencies that can help. There may be support offered as a form of financial assistance, education, referrals, or job placement. The first step to obtaining help through any of the services, including Community Outreach is to contact Eastern Henrico FISH. This should also be done before falling too far behind on bills or expenses.
Anyone from the community can schedule an appointment with an Outreach Worker at locations in the county. For those that qualify, and who are honest with their needs and have proof of income, etc. all advice is free, and there is no fee for the services or guidance provided, ever. FISH staff are knowledgeable of local resources that may present clients with effective long-term solutions, and the the goal of the programs from FISH is to help low to moderate income families achieve independence and financial stability, at the same time as addressing short term emergency needs of shelter, food, and housing.
The charity can provide referral and information, advocate, and link qualified clients to one time emergency assistance or grants, even for mortgage payments. There may be funds for shelter, utility bills, heat, medications, or food. Outreach workers as well as volunteers from Eastern Henrico FISH can also help people establish, and meet, long-term goals like managing a budget, establishing or repairing your credit, and building assets.
All the aid and support is offered under the premise that everybody deserves to be treated with respect and dignity, regardless of their personal circumstances. So there is help for the elderly, newcomers and immigrants to the state of Virginia, the disabled, and anyone. Individuals need to be offered the skills, knowledge and assistance they need to lead productive lives.
One mission is on assisting families toward housing stability as well as greater independence. This is accomplished from Transitional Housing in Chesterfield and Henrico, and this combines affordable accommodations and case management. There are apartments and homes across the community that do this, and while in residence, people can work toward the achievement of self-defined goals such as around employment or increased education. Case managers encourage and support these families in transition.
Clothing Centers and Food Pantries serve a number of low income individuals as well as the underemployed each year. These are key resources for meeting basic needs. The Clothing Banks provides essential items for work, school and even around the holidays, such as toys or winter coats. Donations of gently used as well as new clothing and essential household goods in good condition are accepted from businesses, individuals and organizations across the Richmond area.
The other option is the emergency food bank. There will be a multiple day supply of free groceries as well as food to struggling and low income families in need. The center and the staff who work there will also help residents access other more long term services, such as SNAP food stamps, that will help to assure the family has adequate resources in the future to provide for nutrition.
Immigration services is for newcomers to Virginia. The immigrant population is high and this program provides referrals and free information to clients for their questions or problems. The objective is to create a safe space where issues can be discussed in confidence and to be a source of support during the process of immigration.
Many other services are offered in the region, and Eastern Henrico FISH can offer referrals to them. Some examples include.
- -Legal Advocacy is for low-income people as well as seniors of all incomes that are attempting to represent themselves in family law matters.
- -Source of information on government grants for rent and housing, such as ESG.
- -Job placement services from WIA centers may be an option for the under or unemployed.
- -Learn about programs in the state of Virginia that address medical needs.
Applying for FISH financial assistance in Henrico County
Much more is available. To donate or volunteer, or to apply for support, the main Eastern Henrico FISH office is at the following PO Box 38212, Henrico, Virginia 23231.
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