Ephrata Area Social Services assistance programs.
Find information on assistance programs administered by the Ephrata Area Social Services, mostly in partnership with local churches and charities. In general, the organization tries to meet the basic, emergency needs of Lancaster families. Every month hundreds of families use one or more of their programs, with the greatest demand being on the food bank. The agency serves the community of Ephrata and also the Cocalico Regions of Northern Lancaster County Pennsylvania.
A clothing distribution bank is located at 227 N. State St. in Ephrata Pennsylvania. The site has very limited hours and may only be open one day per week. Based on what has been donated to the charity and its churches, the clothing room offers several opportunities for families and parents to select shoes, free winter coats, adults attire, school supplies, and clothing for their children. The center may have items for infant to older adult, men, women, maternity and large sizes. The location may also have blankets and other items available for those that qualify.
There is a registration process offered in partnership with Cocalico School Districts and people can only use the site at most once per 30 days. Please donate if you can. The center always needs books, household items, winter coats, boots, and other types of small incidentals.
The food bank is under high demand. Ephrata Area Social Services relies on volunteers to keep the center running. What may usually be passed out to the needy, poor, and low income includes bread, milk, eggs, margarine, meats and cheese. The EASS food bank can only be used at most once per month. Churches, schools, civic organizations, businesses and individuals donate to the pantry. Please contribute items or volunteer if you can and it will make a difference in the community.
Emergency financial and rental assistance was created in EASS in partnership with local churches and charities in Lancaster Pennsylvania. A fund was created to help with the purchase of goods such as heating oil, fuel, and to be used for paying rent. Limited help is available to assist with prescriptions as well, including vouchers for medications.
Most of the utility bill assistance is to be used during to heat the homes of qualified low income families and the elderly during the winter months. Another priority will be to help prevent the disconnection of electric service in the colder spring months.
The rental assistance is to help those with an eviction notice and that are facing homelessness. As noted, funds are donated from local groups and another key partner is the Tabor Community Services organization.
Transportation and rides across Lancaster County Pennsylvania are arranged by Ephrata Area Social Services for senior citizens. Many of the riders are incapable of driving a vehicle, living alone, or maybe they are in a nursing home. While the transportation is free, a donation is appreciated.
They will often request a one time ride because of a medical procedure or maybe they need a prescription filled. Transportation may also be provided for trips to the hospital, doctor, grocery store, bank, hairdresser, or pharmacy. This transportation service is offered 5 days a week, year round, excluding bad weather days and holidays. Please call (717) 733-0345 for details.
Seniors and the disabled also rely heavily on Meals on Wheels. Thousands of meals are delivered by EASS and its volunteers to the homebound and most vulnerable. These hot meals are delivered and prepared by volunteers from Lancaster at two primary sites, including The Lutheran Church of the Holy Trinity at 167 E. Main St. in Ephrata as well as at St. Johns UCC on 4th St.. in Denver Pennsylvania.
Ephrata Area Social Services has a strong desire to help the less fortunate and make a difference in Lancaster. If you need help or support, call them or stop by 227 North State Street Ephrata, Pennsylvania 17522. Phone 717-733-0345.
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