What questions would you ask when looking to assist a needy person?

I agree with the first to answer.

As a low-income single mom (not afraid to admit it, I made the choice to raise children, not have a high-paying career) I can assure you that help with food and heating bills would be most appreciated.

Also, you might wish to provide help with winter clothing for the kids. Especially warm boots and coats. They are quite expensive, and children outgrow them quickly. And don't forget mom. Many times, she does without so that the children can have what little is available.

Another nice thing to donate is basic hygiene and cleaning supplies. Most low-income families receive food stamps, but there are still other purchases that take quite a chunk out of the family budget. These items include tooth paste, shampoo and conditioner, soap, deodorant, toilet paper, paper towels, kleenex, cough syrups, hand lotions, laundry detergent, dish washing liquid, first-aid supplies... Whatever you buy for your family is always needed by another.

If these families have small children, please include diapers, formula, and other baby needs. And it's always nice to include a small toy. It doesn't have to be a holiday to think of the children. A little something is always a day-brightener.

The questions you ask would depend on what it is you wish to give. Keep in mind that people of low-income are in constant need of everything. Things to make everyday living a little more easy is always appreciated.

ADDED: I know you mean well, and I commend your efforts, so please don't take this the wrong way. If someone was to come into my home and ask what I need, I would say, "Nothing."

It's a pride thing, and one I'm certain is shared by many who are in need. By asking what it is you can do for them, you are placing them in a position where they must humble themselves and tell you specifically. That's difficult to do.

May I suggest that the members of your church take the time to visit with those you wish to help? An hour spent in their home getting to know them will tell you exactly what it is they need. Then, before leaving, leave for them a list of items your church is willing to donate. Ask that they look it over, check off any services they may be interested in, or any needs they have, including clothing sizes for all family members.

Then, simply request they drop this questionnaire in the mail. Make sure the postage is already paid. Thank them for their time.

As for those who may have trouble filling out the form, simply ask if they would like your assistance, or if they prefer to do this at their leisure. That way, anyone who may not understand the questions can accept your offer without fear of embarrassment.

Please do not put the person in a position where they may be viewed as illiterate. I remember years ago (while asking for information on the LIHEAP program) being thoroughly humiliated when the clerk asked if I needed help with the forms, "due to being illiterate." Yes, she actually said that.

One of the questions asked what year of high school I had completed, and apparently, not attending for my senior year made me illiterate in her eyes. Needless to say, words were exchanged.

What you are doing is a very nice gesture. Just remember, poor doesn't necessarily mean *dumb,* so be respectful and sensitive to the other person's needs.

If all you are doing is providing a couch or bed. There's not that much to cover.

If in the future you want to continue helping some of the families. I'd find out how many children, ages, genders.

For years I participated in a program where I bought the same child, a winter coat, new school shoes, 2 christmas gifts and since I had a girly girl, I'd buy her a girly dress for her birthday.

It's so little spread out over a year.

Eligible families could be people who are considered within the Federal Poverty Guidelines. http://aspe.hhs.gov/poverty/08Poverty.shtml

Also, if they aren't employed, do they have plans on getting employment.

Were the affected by some sort of disaster? (house fire, katrina evac, tornado victim, etc. )

Proof of income, proof of residency, Social Security number for self and all dependents, state issued ID or DL.

And just tacking on one more thing adding to what someone above me said. The top need out there right now isn't furniture, its help with Food and Utilities/Rent. Just throwing that out there.

not everyone who is poor is illiterate or dumb. some are very Intelligent and have had horrible things happen to them. Some have aspergers syndrome which effects primarily highly intelligent folks but for an Aspie, it is very hard to be successful because they cannot operate well in social situations. They are very smart people who have autism and people do not understand them or why they cannot hold down jobs when they are so smart. Try starting a program that helps the people get successful in these situations instead of belittling them or looking down on them.

You might ask what they already have in their home. If they've already got enough beds, then giving them another one is going to be a bit silly. Same with a couch. I'm suspecting food or help with heating bills might be more useful to them than furniture, but that's just my opinion.

NO, there really was a St Nicholas. The Catholic and Eastern Orthodox churches recognize about 3,000 Patron Saints. I'm willing to bet there might even be multiple St. Nicholases as I often times see multiple saints with the same name. Therefore, you could easily pray to the Original St. Nicholas OR maybe one of the multiple Nicholases if there are more, and still NOT believe in the secular Santa Claus figure of pop culture. and by "Pray to" -- of course..... Catholics mean, "ask the Saint to intercede on your behalf and ask Jesus for help, in addition to your own petitions." -- Because Catholics don't literally pray to Saints like demi-gods. (That last part was for the sake of my Protestant Brotheren, who misunderstand the phrase "pray to" when applied to intercession)

Are you interested in programs that will help you earn a Ged or attend college?

Are you interested in programs to assist with childcare so you can attend school or go to work?

This of course would require you to research what programs were in your community so that you can tell them about them. Many people do not utilize these programs simply because they don't know about them.

If you are specifically looking to assist in buying a couch or bed, then I would ask them if they have any back problems, or maybe if they need just a twin or a double size bed.

I would ask them:

What would you say you are in need of the most right now?

Yeah, I know it's not a yes/no question, but then how can you figure out how to help them if you don't know what they are in need of?

1. Would a new bed/couch be of benefit to your family?