This fund will be used as a discretionary fund to assist primarily individuals or families associated with Westminster United Church and our ministries who are in need of financial assistance not being met by existing personal financial resources and various government and non-profit agencies such as the Food Bank.
Needs may include, but are not limited to, assistance with:

• Medical expenses
• Travelling to a family funeral or emergency
• Unexpected costs for personal items

Donations Guidelines

• The Caring and Sharing Fund is intended to help alleviate one-time or short-term emergent needs.
• Distribution of money from the fund will be at the sole discretion of the Minister for amounts up to $250. Amounts above $250 shall be at the discretion of the Minister and either the Chair or Treasurer of Church Council.
• Contributions should be restricted to no more than twice in a calendar year to any one individual or family.
• Cash or cheques will not be given to individuals or family members. Donations will be used to purchase gift cards for needs at local commercial outlets such as gas stations, supermarkets or department stores.
• Following a recommendation by the minister, Items requiring cash payment for temporary accommodation, prescription medications and other such items will be paid directly by a representative of the church. In cases where reimbursement is needed, receipts should be submitted within one month of the approved expense.

Contributions to the Fund

• ​Initial funding of $1,500 will be contributed from the WUC Bequest Fund. After the first year, the amount to be drawn from the Bequest Fund, if any, should be reviewed annually, with consideration given to the use of the Caring and Sharing Fund, and the financial state of the church.
• In addition, proceeds from one or two fundraising efforts per year could be added to the fund.
• If monies from the Caring and Sharing Fund are not fully used during a calendar year, that money will roll over into the following fiscal year.

​Oversight of the Fund

Monies contributed to the Fund and withdrawn from it shall be recorded as a separate line item as per Westminster budgeting and fiscal reporting practice.  The fund shall be administered by the Membership and Care Committee.