Ideas that Work
October 1, 1994
HANDLING TRANSIENTS
I operate on the principle that I'd rather be taken in than miss an angel," says Pastor Michael Easley. "But anyone in ministry knows that the transient network is often faster than a fax. Five dollars given to one will generate a host of similar requests."
Not wanting to be cynical nor to be taken too many times, Easley developed some specific procedures at Grand Prairie (Texas) Bible Church.
When a transient asks for help, the staff explains that the church will be glad to assist but does not dispense cash. Instead, the staff asks those requesting help to fill out a Person-In-Need form. The form asks for information about place of employment, nearest relative, last church membership, and names and ages of family members.
When this information is sought, 10 percent of the requests are withdrawn. Easley believes those people probably didn't have a legitimate need.
If someone indicates association with a church, he is told that his own church probably has funds for assistance. Easley's church will pay for calls if anyone needs to make contact.
Another question on the form gathers information about specific needs: diapers, milk, food, even clothing. One church member is a department store manager who can give away certain amounts of these supplies.
The person is told that on the following Sunday an announcement will say simply that a family is looking for assistance; anyone who would like to help may contact a church staff member after the service. No names or details are given.
Only twice in three years has no one responded to this announcement, and several church families volunteered to be available if that happens. Members offering to help are given information about how to contact the needy family.
If an emergency ...
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