Benevolence Program

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Purpose:

The RHCA Benevolence Fund exists to provide short-term financial assistance to individuals and families experiencing verified hardship. It's purpose is to extend compassionate relief while encouraging stability and independence, in keeping with RHCA’s mission to serve and strengthen communities.

Benevolence assistance is not ongoing support and is meant to address immediate, verifiable needs such as housing, utilities, food, or essential transportation.

Oversight and Administration:

The Benevolence Committee, appointed by the Executive Director, oversees the administration of all benevolence requests and ensures compliance with RHCA policies. The committee includes:

• Benevolence Director (Chair)
• Finance Liaison
• One additional board-approved member

All approvals and disbursements require dual review and documentation.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Applicants must reside within the geographic service area supported by RHCA or its regional affiliates.
• Applicants must demonstrate a legitimate financial hardship due to unemployment, medical emergencies, or other unexpected circumstances.
• Applicants must complete the official Benevolence Request Form and provide all required documentation (proof of need, identification, and vendor invoices).
• Applicants must agree to participate in follow-up calls or case reviews as determined by RHCA.

Types of Assistance:

Eligible categories include:

• Rent or mortgage assistance (to prevent eviction or foreclosure).
• Utility payments (electricity, gas, water, internet required for work/school).
• Emergency food or medical aid.
• Transportation support (limited to repairs or emergency gas).

Payments:

RHCA does not issue payments to individuals, via CashApp, Zelle, or similar platforms. Payments are made directly to vendors only.

Financial Guidelines:

• There are maximum amount limits, annual household limits and frequency of request limits in place.
• There is a specific monthly budget maximum allocated to the Benevolence Fund by the RHCA.

There is a specific monthly budget maximum allocated to the Benevolence Fund by the RHCA