The primary function of this basic program is to provide support to individuals and families on their path from crisis to stability by working together to meet basic needs reliably—finding employment, affordable housing, child care, establishing and maintaining a budget, finding health care, and discovering the road to increasing household income. Free financial workshops are offered to the public. There may be, depending on funding, supplemental assistance with uniforms, transportation, budget counseling, food, and educational assistance. Referrals and collaboration with other agencies provides assistance in achieving participant-defined goals, answering questions or resolving issues. This program is funded by the Community Services Block Grant administered by the N.C. Office of Economic Opportunity. Other grant funding is periodically received to provide enhanced service. Enrollment in this program is based on income and other factors with a limited number of slots. Recent funders have included the Community Foundation and the United Way.
GARDENS PROGRAM
Low-income families and individuals in Polk, Transylvania, and Henderson County may apply to receive a voucher to purchase seeds, plants and fertilizer for a garden thus enabling them to stretch their food dollars. Vouchers are limited and are issued on a “First Come First Serve” basis. Canning and freezing food produced through this program becomes a year round source of nutrition. Funding is provided by the Henderson County Hunger Coalition, Thermal Belt Outreach, and local donations.
NUTRITIONAL SUPPLEMENT PROGRAM
Supplemental Liquid nutritional products may be available at no cost for low-income persons with Dr certified compromised nutrition due to health problems. A limited number of subsidies are available for those under 60 with Dr certified nutrition deficiencies. Participants are served according to funding and a wait list is maintained if funding is not available. Funding is provided by Home and Community Care Block Grant, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Henderson County Hunger Coalition and local donations.
ABOUT THIS DEPARTMENT
There are currently three employees in this department: The Program Director, an Intake Case Worker, and a Self-Sufficiency Coordinator. Program support and referrals are provided for Section 8 Housing and Community Service Programs.
FUNDING SOURCES
PO Box 685 • 220 King Creek Boulevard • Hendersonville, NC 28793
Hendersonville: (828) 693-1711 Brevard: (828) 884-2255