Nonprofit says it’s seen twice as many people in need of financial help

MATTHEWS, N.C. — A Matthews nonprofit that provides short-term crisis assistance says it’s seen the need for that assistance double recently.

Matthews HELP Center Executive Director Sandra Conway says the group is working hard to help residents avoid eviction and utility disconnection as prices increase and resources for financial assistance dwindle. She told Channel 9 the decision from RAMP Charlotte to stop taking applications last month has driven more people their way.

“When something like the pandemic happens, everything surfaces, and then when you have the added inflation of prices,” Conway said. “It’s a mess. We’re just trying to bring in as much money as we can because we know we can’t sustain this, and we need as much support as possible.”

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Conway says the group needs the community’s help with donations, so they can continue their work.

Since the beginning of the pandemic through December 2021, the center says it’s given more than $1.4 million in assistance to 11,000 residents. That money supports rent, utilities, daycare, and transportation. Nonfinancial assistance includes three days of emergency food, clothing, and shopping vouchers in the Center’s thrift store.

“Last fiscal year, thanks to the support of our generous community, MHC provided a total of $864,169 in financial and non-financial support services to 2,101 households impacting 5,662 individuals,” Director of Development Susan Ross said. “As the pandemic continues and individuals are having to be out of work due to quarantining, the request for financial assistance also continues. During the month of January, the organization has provided more than $75,000 in financial assistance to the community on a budget of $35,000. That is significant and unsustainable without the continued support of our community.”

The demographics of those served last fiscal year show 58% were adults, 42% were children but 60% were employed and 35% were unemployed.

The five ZIP codes Matthews HELP Center serves are:

• 28104 (Matthews/Stallings)
• 28105 (Matthews); 28226
• 28270 (Charlotte)
• 28079 (Indian Trail)

All must apply on the organization’s website. Once proof of need is established, the social worker team partners with families to help resolve their immediate crisis and help guide them towards financial security. If those in need are outside the service area, check here for resources.

If you would like to make a donation, click here.

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