Interfaith Human Services Inc.

Interfaith Human Services Inc. is a nonprofit organization focused on strengthening families through financial stability in Centre County, Pennsylvania. For over 50 years, the organization has provided critical support to low-income and financially vulnerable individuals by offering financial education programs designed to transition clients from crisis management to monthly budgeting and financial stability[2][3].

Goals

The primary goal of Interfaith Human Services Inc. is to help individuals and families either attain or maintain financial stability. This is achieved through a variety of programs and services tailored to address financial instability caused by factors such as illness, divorce, or lack of financial knowledge[3].

Programs

Interfaith Human Services Inc. offers several key programs to support its mission:

Financial Care Program

• Representative Payee Services: These services are designed for individuals receiving Social Security benefits who are deemed medically ineligible to manage their own finances. The program ensures timely bill payments and protects benefits from misappropriation[5].
• Money Management Services: This involves one-on-one counseling to assist individuals with income management, budget creation, debt reduction, and understanding bank statements. Clients often are referred from other social service agencies or county offices[5].

Free Furniture and Appliance Recycling Program

This initiative provides free, gently-used household furniture and large appliances to eligible individuals and families in Centre County. It helps households stretch their income by offsetting the cost of essential items like refrigerators, washers, and dryers. The program also facilitates the recycling of these items[5].

Centre County Fuel Bank

Operational from January to March, this program delivers free heating oil, wood, propane, and coal to eligible residents to help prevent heating emergencies. It does not cover all heating costs or pay overdue bills[5].

Impact

In recent fiscal years, the organization has assisted numerous individuals through various services, such as representative payee services, fuel deliveries, and the distribution of furniture and appliances. The efforts of Interfaith Human Services Inc. have significantly improved financial stability and reduced anxiety related to money management for its clients[2].

Governance

The organization is governed by a diverse board of directors from local churches and communities. The board conducts regular assessments and orientations to ensure effective leadership and ethical practices[3].