I need help finding community resources for a family down on their luck.?

Question

I have checked into the obvious food pantries, Catholic Services, Lutheran Services, and the public assistance. This family has undergone some drastic hardships the past 6 months. Dad is disabled and he is unable to work at all due to the family being in a car accident. There is a 6 year old boy, and mom is 6 months pregnant. Mom works full time, but due to lack of funds, she can't even fill her car with gas. Anyone have any ideas? They are in the Madison, WI area.

Answer 1

In Texas we have a program called 211 Texas A Call For Help.  You can call that number and be given either state or local referals.  You may check to see if WI has something like that?

Also check the local food stamp office, other churches for the gas, medicaid, local mental health mental retardation center, they may be able to guide you somewhere.

Answer 2

Here are some resources that may be helpful.

1. http://www.clanet.org - offers food assistance to families who meet eligibility requirements

2. Anonymous Fund Program

US Bank at 1 South Pinckney, Madison WI

608-252-4000

Program description: ANONYMOUS FUND - An application is taken for people in need of emergency funds. NOT LIMITED TO MEDICAL CONDITIONS. Applicant will need a reference and should supply as much detail as possible. A board will review the application and decide if and how much will be given from Trust Fund. Funds are dispersed on a quarterly basis. Maximum limit is $2000.00 per year. Applicants may re-apply annually, total maximum is $5000.00 per individual.

Eligibility: Must be a Wisconsin Resident. Application process and reference required. Applicant must submit a fully completed application form and letter of recommendation form professional who is familiar with your needs-such as a pastor, minister, social worker, doctor and dentist. Limit of distribution is $2,000 per year with a total of $5,000 each individual. Moneys approved will be distributed to the creditor or retailer. Application reviewed quarterly in Jan, Apr, Jul, Oct. Completed applications must be received by: Mar 31 - for April funding, Jun 30 - for July funding, Sep 30 - for Oct funding, and Dec 31 - for Jan funding.

3. Wisconsin Works (W-2) Program - Financial assistance

Dane County at 1819 Aberg Ave, North Gate Shopping Center, Madison WI

608-242-744

Program description: WISCONSIN WORKS (W-2) - The replacement program for aid to families with dependent children; this program is not an entitlement. Eligibility is based upon income, assets, and willingness of parent to work. The program is time limited: 24 consecutive months, 60 months lifetime, and benefits are directly related to work activity.

Eligibility: Eligibility is based upon income, assets, and willingness of parent to work. Call for qualification information.

4. Medication Assistance Program

Community Living Alliance at 1414 MacArthur Rd, Madison WI

Kate Coerper at 608-242-8335 x3161



Program Description: Assistance with prescriptions if part of service plan. Payments are made to vendors. If individual has not become eligible for disability benefits, but are on a waiting list, such as for the COP Program, can also can apply for prescription assistance.

Eligibility: Have a long term irreversible illness or physical disability which substantially impairs function, live in Dane County and eligible for Wisconsin Medical Assistance Program. Must meet financial and functional level of care eligibility. Some programs at CLA also have age requirements or limitations.

5. Meals on Wheels Program

Independent Living Inc/Madison at 815 Forward Dr, Madison WI

Contact Information:

602 N Aegoe Rd

Madison WI

email: [e-mail]

Phone [phone]

Fax: [phone]

Program Description: Evening MEALS ON WHEELS delivered 5 nights a week and on special holidays. Meals consist of a meat and potato, rice or pasta, a salad or vegetable, bread and dessert. Diabetic desserts are available. Weekend meals in microwaveable containers are available with Friday delivery.

Eligibility: $6.65 per meal. Financial subsidies/grants may be available. Available for all ages.

Answer 3

I did a quick search and found this page quite insiteful.  This gives contact info on support from housing, food, financial, medical, and employment.  I recommend ARC they're a really good non profit organization for resources.  

Please click on the link:  http://www.katrinadisability.info/WISCON...

This has several very good resources.

Good Luck

Answer 4

churches might be an option, or organizing a drive to collect money/food. Salvation army,dept of social services,WIC,