Who is the HELP Center? 

The HELP Center is a dedicated 501(c)3 nonprofit organization committed to supporting the formerly incarcerated and low-income individuals in restructuring their lives and achieving success. For over a decade, we have been offering a range of comprehensive services to enhance human well-being and address the complex needs of vulnerable, oppressed, and impoverished populations. 

Their services include: 

• Comprehensive case management 

• Work readiness and vocational training programs 

• A food pantry 

• Addictions recovery services 

• Various supportive resources 

On average, The HELP Center serves over 500 individuals annually, making a significant impact on the lives of those in our community. 

What is the best part of the work they do? 

The most rewarding aspect of our work at The HELP Center is witnessing the transformation and empowerment of the individuals they serve. Each success story, whether it’s someone accessing food, gaining new skills through our vocational training programs, securing employment after participating in our work readiness courses, or finding stability and support through our case management services, highlights the impact of their efforts. Seeing our participants achieve their goals and improve their lives provides immense satisfaction and reinforces our commitment to our mission. 

SNAP Partnership with Second Harvest 

Since 2018, The HELP Center has been a proud SNAP partner with Second Harvest, assisting neighbors with their SNAP applications and related assistance. Their comprehensive process includes: 

1. Initial Case Management Session: When individuals apply for our food pantry program, they meet with a case manager for an initial session to assess their needs, identify the reasons for food assistance, and provide a path for self-sufficiency through our various programs. 

2. Needs Assessment and SNAP Benefits Determination: Based on the initial assessment, if SNAP benefits are needed, they provide hands-on support in completing the SNAP application, ensuring all necessary documentation is collected and accurately submitted. 

3. Follow-Up and Advocacy: After submission, their case management team follows up with neighbors to address any additional information requests from SNAP administrators and to assist with any issues that may arise during the approval process. They advocate on behalf of our neighbors to ensure they receive the benefits they are entitled to and provide guidance on maintaining their benefits. 

They have a dedicated team of eight staff members who specialize in SNAP application assistance. 

Challenges and Rewards in SNAP Application Assistance 

Most Challenging Part: The most challenging aspect of SNAP application assistance is navigating the complexities of the application process, which can be overwhelming for neighbors, especially those facing language barriers or lacking necessary documentation. Additionally, the mail-in application process can lead to extended wait times for neighbors if One DHS is not accessible, causing ongoing hardships. 

Most Rewarding Part: The most rewarding part is seeing neighbors successfully receive their SNAP benefits, which provides them with essential support to meet their nutritional needs. Knowing that we are helping individuals and families gain access to nutritious food and improve their overall well-being is incredibly fulfilling. 

Success  

They have several inspiring success stories that highlight the impact of their SNAP assistance. One particular story stands out: 

A single mother of two came to them struggling to make ends meet after losing her job. During her initial case management session, they identified that she was eligible for SNAP benefits, which would significantly help her provide for her family. They guided her through the application process, ensuring all necessary documentation was submitted. Despite facing barriers and the complexities of the application process, their team provided consistent support and follow-up. 

After some initial delays, they advocated on her behalf to expedite the process. Eventually, she was approved for SNAP benefits, which provided her with the necessary resources to feed her children and stabilize her household. This assistance allowed her to focus on improving her skills through our vocational training programs. 

Today, she has secured a stable job, no longer receives SNAP, and is on a path toward continued self-sufficiency. Her story is a testament to the transformative power of comprehensive support and advocacy, showcasing how our services can make a profound difference in the lives of those we serve.