SERVICES

Food Pantry Info: Our emergency food program is one of the largest in Champaign County. In 2007 we provided food to an average of 165 families every week! We provide both perishable and non-perishable food items to families in need. Thanks to our affiliation with the Eastern Illinois Food Bank we are able to purchase food for much less than a trip to the grocery store. We can feed a family of four for one week for about $14!

Clothing Closet: Through our clothing closet we not only distribute clothing, but furniture, small and large appliances, miscellaneous household items, and toys as well. We distribute an average of 1,500 articles of clothing every time we are open, along with countless numbers of these other items. Everything we distribute through this important part of our ministry is free to those in need.

Financial Literacy: We offer financial education in the form of a thirteen week course using curriculum from nationally-syndicated radio talk show host, and best-selling author Dave Ramsey. This course covers everything from getting out of debt, budgeting, and saving for emergencies to investing, planning for the future, and giving. One-on-one counseling is also available to address specific issues.

Some of the benefits of this class are:

• People are empowered to take responsibility for themselves and their financial future.
• Valuable principles that help parenting skills, coping skills, marriage and employment skills are taught.
• People learn to live on a budget that actually works for them.
• Increases control over income and expenses.
• Increases self-confidence and gives hope.

Financial Counseling:

For individuals/families who have debt outside of a home mortgage or even a crisis situation. We will help establish a sound monthly budget, plan for paying off debt and address specific personal issues surrounding their individual needs. (Creditors, judgments, foreclosures, bankruptcy, extra jobs, etc). It includes an initial 2-hour session and 3 months of follow-up (up to four additional hours) which is dependent on each client’s specific needs. The four additional hours can include limited debt negotiation. Unlike most Personal Financial Counselors, Salt & Light is not getting commissions on selling insurance or investments. Client can be sure they are getting advice that is objective with their best interest at heart.