What is Pagosa Outreach Connection?
A confidential, multi-agency effort aimed at providing one-time, emergency, “last resort” assistance to individuals or families facing near term financial crisis.
Purpose:
The goal of POC is to change a person or family from being dependent to being independent. In doing so, a one time assistance might be needed to help with an extraordinary situation. At other times, a longer, more controlled situation might be needed for a person or family to move toward independence. POC is willing to offer assistance.
Function:
Applications are referred by any agencies and are screened and their data verified. Representatives of participating organizations meet weekly to consider applications and to determine type and amount of assistance to be provided – if any. Applicants are advised of funding decisions immediately following that meeting.
Financial:
Payments are made directly to the service provider, never to the applicant. Pagosa Outreach Connection makes the payments and maintains the checkbook while United Way of Southwest Colorado acts as the fiscal agent.
Restrictions:
Individual funding agency restrictions are honored, i.e. Round-up Foundation cannot pay electric bills, Salvation Army can only be accessed once a year etc. An individual is limited to a one-time assistance from Pagosa Outreach Connection. Rental and utility deposits are not funded.
Applicant Eligibility:
To receive assistance the individual is expected to be free from any illegal substances; this individual may be subjected to drug testing.
Confidentiality:
Confidentiality of applicant is maintained, however a “release of information” must be signed so that details may be verified. Occasional releases for publicity purposes may be requested but are not required.
Assistance Levels:
No per applicant dollar limits are specified, however practical considerations based on available funding generally limit grants, with the majority ranging between $150 and $600.
How to Apply:
Click the “Apply Here” button to access the application form. Complete the form and gather all necessary documentation as outlined in the application. You may submit your application electronically by e-mailing it and all back-up documentation to elises@unitedway-swco.org or by dropping off a physical copy to: Community United Methodist Church at 434 Lewis Street, Pagosa Springs 81147 – OR – Archuleta County Department of Human Services at 551 Hot Springs Blvd, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147 in front of the ACDHS entrance.