1mission

Benevolence Policy for 1Family Fellowship

Purpose:

The purpose of the Benevolence Policy at 1Family Fellowship is to provide a clear and consistent framework for assisting individuals and families in need within our congregation and surrounding community. This policy reflects the biblical mandate to love our neighbors, demonstrate compassion, and support those who are facing financial, emotional, or physical hardship.

I. Eligibility Criteria

        1.Members of the Congregation: Priority will be given to members of 1Family Fellowship who are active in church life, including regular attendance, involvement in ministry, and financial support through tithes and offerings.

        2.Non-Members: Assistance may also be extended to non-members in the community who demonstrate genuine need, particularly in cases of emergency or extreme hardship.

        3.Nature of Need: Assistance will be considered for the following:

• Emergency needs (e.g., medical bills, housing, food, utilities).

• Unforeseen circumstances (e.g., loss of employment, natural disasters).

• Compassionate assistance in cases of health crises or life-altering events (e.g., death in the family, major illness).

        4. Limitations:

        •Benevolence assistance will be provided primarily for temporary relief, not long-term or recurring support.

        •Assistance may be limited to a specific amount or a one-time grant depending on available resources.

II. Application Process

        1.Request Submission:

Requests for assistance should be submitted in writing (via email or paper form) to the Benevolence Committee or designated church staff member. The request must include details of the need, amount requested, and any relevant documentation (e.g., bills, medical statements, etc.).

        2.Evaluation:

The Benevolence Committee or a designated team of church leaders will review the request. Considerations for approval will include:

        •The severity and urgency of the need.

        •The financial circumstances of the individual or family.

        •The church’s available benevolence funds.

        3.Confidentiality:

All requests for assistance will be handled with the utmost confidentiality. Information shared during the request process will only be shared with individuals involved in the decision-making process.

        4.Approval/Denial:

Once the Benevolence Committee has reviewed the request, a decision will be made within [X] days. If assistance is approved, the committee will inform the individual of the amount and form of support. If the request is denied, the individual will be provided with an explanation and, where possible, alternative resources or referrals.

III. Forms of Assistance

        1.Financial Aid:

        •Direct financial assistance for bills, rent, utilities, or other essential needs may be provided based on the available funds.

        2.In-Kind Donations:

        •In some cases, assistance may take the form of in-kind donations, such as food, clothing, or household items.

        3.Prayer Support and Counseling:

        •All recipients of benevolence assistance will be offered prayer and support from the pastoral team, and where applicable, access to counseling services.

IV. Funding Sources

        1.Tithes and Offerings:

Benevolence funds will primarily come from designated offerings and contributions from the congregation.

        2.Special Benevolence Funds:

Occasionally, special offerings may be taken for specific benevolent purposes (e.g., holiday food baskets, disaster relief). These funds will be managed separately from the church’s general fund.

V. Accountability

        1.Record-Keeping:

The Benevolence Committee will maintain accurate records of all requests, approvals, and disbursements. These records will be reviewed periodically for accountability and transparency.

        2.Review of Funds:

The church leadership will review the benevolence fund status regularly to ensure that the resources are being used effectively and appropriately.

VI. Limitations and Exclusions

        1.No Loans:

Benevolence funds are provided as gifts, not loans, and are not expected to be repaid.

        2.Non-Essential Requests:

Assistance will not be provided for non-essential items (e.g., vacations, non-urgent lifestyle expenses, luxury goods).

        3.Substance Abuse & Criminal Behavior:

Assistance will not be provided to individuals who are actively engaged in illegal or destructive behaviors, such as substance abuse or criminal activities, unless the person is actively seeking rehabilitation or help.

VII. Biblical Foundation

This Benevolence Policy is grounded in the teachings of Scripture:

        •Matthew 25:35-40: “For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in…”

        •Acts 4:34-35: “There were no needy persons among them… For from time to time those who owned land or houses sold them, brought the money from the sales…”

        •1 John 3:17: “If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person?”

VIII. Review and Amendments

This policy will be reviewed annually by the Benevolence Committee and the church leadership to ensure it aligns with the evolving needs of the congregation and community. Amendments may be made as necessary, subject to approval by the church board.

Approved by:

[Pastor’s Name]

[Date]

Effective Date:

[Date]

This policy should help create a clear, compassionate, and responsible framework for providing benevolent support, ensuring that resources are used efficiently and that those in need are cared for in alignment with the church’s values.