Northwest Assistance Ministries touched the lives of 120,264 individuals during the 2007-2008 fiscal year, including 3,566 people impacted by Hurricane Ike. Many NAM clients receive more than one service and participate in more than one program. NAM truly is a “one stop shop” for services. One of the most effective and cost-efficient charities in the community, NAM is a good steward of the resources it receives. Approximately $0.90 of every dollar donated in the 2007-2008 fiscal year went to direct services.
The Assistance Program served 32,256 people with emergency assistance for basic needs, including: shelter, clothing, transportation, prescription medicines, and medical referrals. The Back to School Project provided 2,758 children with school supplies and clothing, enabling the students to return to school ready to learn. In November and December 2007, the Holiday Project provided 1,226 families with holiday dinners and groceries as well as toys and gifts for 3,583 children and teens.
The Shelter and Energy Assistance Program distributed $978,997.00 in assistance to 6,736 people. Funded by government grants, this program is geared to prevent homelessness and to help homeless families become self-sufficient.
The Rotary Learning Center provided 2,151 hours of instruction in English as a Second Language, Adult Basic Education and GED, English Literacy, Civics, and Computer Training. The Workforce Development Center embarked on a partnership with the Texas Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services (DARS) in early 2008, assisting 64 physically and mentally disabled individuals to identify and secure employment.
The Children’s Clinic offers primary health care for children from infancy to age 18 and provided office visits, referrals, appointment calls, and case management to 7,717 children. The Clinic’s annual Shot Blitz provided 1,700 immunizations to 514 children.
The Family Violence Center provided crisis intervention, support groups, adult and children’s counseling, emergency shelter, legal advocacy and education to 2,504 people. In addition, 11,885 students participated in 399 educational presentations through The Youth Education program. The Counseling Center, which operated from September 2007- March 2008, provided mental health services to 205 people.
The Food Pantry provided groceries for well-balanced meals to 25,280 people.
The Interfaith Hospitality Network served 302 homeless adults and children by providing housing, parenting and life skills classes, and counseling for substance abuse, mental health, and family issues.
Meals on Wheels provided 128,150 nutritious meals to an average of 390 homebound seniors and disabled individuals each weekday and 120 on Saturdays.
Fifty Plus, a program for active seniors that offers socialization, education and wellness activities, served 1,966 seniors.
