As we continue to respond to the evacuation and fires affecting our community, we are blessed to be able establish an Emergency Discretionary Fund (EDF) to offer financial assistance to those in need.
This fund exists because Christian brothers and sisters have generously offered to help St. John’s and its people during this time of crisis. Our goal is to use those gifts wisely, fairly, and in a manner that reflects the love of Christ, and this document provides a simple, compassionate, and accountable process for the accessing and dispersing the EDF.
We give thanks to God for the generous donations from churches and individual Christians who gave to demonstrate the great love God has for us,
and to remind us that God sends fellow believers to love and uplift one another in times of need.
How do I know if I qualify for assistance?
Just apply! Because the range of need is so diverse, which makes it difficult to craft definitive guidelines, the EDF Team will review all applications and disperse assistance based on levels of need.
Some of the kinds of things we expect to give assistance for (as a very general guideline, i.e. not a binding or definitive list of what requests will receive aid):
- Hotel and accommodation expenses on account of the evacuation
- Food and meal costs during evacuation
- Spoiled food replacement costs upon returning from evacuation
- Clothing, hygiene, and other personal care items
- For those whose homes may have been destroyed: lump sum assistance and/or individual costs of replacing clothing, furniture, etc.
- Lost income on account of not being able to work.
And many other potential things. Don’t hesitate to ask. We won’t know if we can help if someone doesn’t ask!
Questions or wondering if you should apply?
Feel free to contact the church, Pastor Jefrey or Pastor Scott.
When’s the deadline?
There is no deadline at this time. Applications will be assessed as they come in, and funds dispersed as quickly as we are able.
EDF Application
You can apply by filling out the form below, or apply by email (edf@lutheranchurchsummerland.ca) – please be sure to include Name, Phone, Email Address, nature of your need and level of urgency.
Both application avenues are confidential and secure, viewed only by the EDF Team on an as needed basis. Access to the email and online forms is restricted to only the EDF Team, and all personal identifying information will be redacted in any and all reporting required for transparency and accountability.