About Us
Since 1979, the Community Services Clearinghouse has served as an information-sharing agency working with area churches, civic groups and community agencies. Our agency's primary focus continues to be assisting working families, the elderly, the disabled and children. The Clearinghouse has grown with our service area, and we now offer a broad-based assortment of direct service programs to our clients.
Clearinghouse programs specifically target household hunger, family financial emergencies, and a diverse group of special children's needs and issues. On an annual basis, the Clearinghouse reaches out to more than 6,000 families representing some 20,000 individuals. Many of these are children under 16 years of age.
The Clearinghouse works with families and individuals facing emergency situations. We partner with several local agencies to be sure everyone in need receives all the help available to them. Our Information and Referral Services help families find the help they need, and our Job Board points many clients in the direction of the job that will help them take control of their situations.
The Backpack Story
Our Meals For Kids program currently serves over 2200 children per week. Teachers and counselors from schools in our seven-county area select the students to receive our backpacks on Friday afternoon. There is no application process for the program. All it takes is a recommendation from the school for a student to begin receiving a backpack. Professional nutritionists volunteered their time and skills to select the foods we deliver each week. The backpacks include juice, cereal, pudding and fruit cups. We always include some source of protein like meat sticks or Vienna sausages, as well as crackers and treats. Financial contributions, as well donations of backpack foods are always welcome for the program. The success of this program proves that our supporters truly believe, "No Child Should Ever Go Hungry!"
Pantry
We maintain a well-stocked pantry for use by persons needing food assistance. We serve clients on an emergency basis through the work of several caseworkers who interview the clients. In addition, we serve referrals from Reynolds Cancer Support House, public schools, and the Department of Human Services
Financial Assistance
Our caseworkers also work with a limited number of clients on an emergency basis to provide financial assistance for utilities, rent, or medical needs. These funds are very limited.
Cooperation
We work with a variety of other agencies such as churches, pantries, the United Way, schools, 211, and a host of others to try to find help for our clients. When we are unable to help clients, we try to make sure they leave with a referral to another agency as well as suggestions of ways to help themselves.
Job Board
We maintain an up-to-date job board with job listing in the area. We have several clients who check our job board regularly in an attempt to upgrade their positions.
Please call our office at (479)782-5074 if you need help, or if you would like to know how you can help the Clearinghouse continue its programs. Our success is a direct result of your support.