Township Offering Help for Residents Struggling to Make Ends Meet

Dear Editor:

During this busy holiday season, I’d like to pause for a moment as Supervisor and extend a message to all Township residents, particularly those struggling financially during these troubling economic times.

For these Township residents, currently enduring financial hardship, I would like to lend my support and encouragement in seeking out any number of assistance programs and services your Township offers.

The Orland Township General Assistance Office administers two distinct financial assistance programs, both of which maintain full confidentiality: General Assistance (GA) and Emergency Assistance (EA). The Township Office also serves as a referral source for other local, state and federal programs that may be of aid to individuals and families facing a financial crisis.

 GA is a locally administered welfare program, which provides monthly financial assistance to persons who are ineligible for other state or federal assistance, and who do not have adequate income or resources to provide for the basic needs of shelter, food, utilities, personal necessities, medical needs and other expenses deemed essential to the health and well-being of an individual.

A few of the basic guidelines are as follows: the individual must be a U.S. citizen or legal alien, a Township resident, at least 18 years old, out of high school, with no minor children, found to have no potential means of income, found ineligible for other state or federal benefits and able to work and participate in a job search program or pending Social Security Disability or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Applicants who do not qualify for GA may still qualify for EA.

EA is available to individuals or families who are ineligible for GA, not receiving categorical assistance or SSI, facing a life-threatening situation due to loss of income, medical emergency or other unusual circumstances, and meet the other financial and non-financial eligibility criteria. You may receive EA only once in a 12-month period and it is paid directly to a provider (such as a landlord or utility company) to alleviate the life-threatening situation.

Financial problems are especially difficult during the holidays. The Orland Township holiday program and “Adopt-A-Family” program were generated so that our local children in need have the opportunity to celebrate a happy holiday, filled with special gifts, including important basic items like winter coats, boots and gloves.

In recent months, the Orland Township Food Pantry has distributed food as fast as it has received donations, a clear indication of the struggle that a great number of residents are currently experiencing.

The Township is a unified community, comprised of individuals with good hearts who are willing to do their part. You may be in a position to give a holiday gift this year or to receive a holiday gift this year. Either way, remember your fellow residents and keep in mind that Orland Township is here to assist you.

Sincerely,

Paul O’Grady

Orland Township Supervisor