This guide helps RS and EQ presidents gather the right information, support self-reliance, and report clearly to the bishop.

Fast Offering Assistance Guide | Linktree

Download Forms: 

Before reporting to the bishop, help the member prepare the basic documents. These documents help the bishop understand the request clearly.

1. Proof of Need

This depends on the type of assistance requested.

Example:
• Medical: Prescription, hospital bill, statement of account, medical certificate, lab request, quotation
• Food: List of food needs, family size, current income situation
• Utilities: Electric or water bill, disconnection notice, due date
• Housing: Rental notice, landlord statement, photos if repair or calamity-related

For medical requests, the FOAR asks for information such as whether the patient was brought to a public or private hospital, whether the patient has been discharged, hospital billing, final diagnosis or procedure, and other payment details when needed.

Download Forms: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1-Ee5zwpqW2A0VUtB8iXyZ1NDZ3KwmX6x?usp=sharing

Step 3: Discuss the 3 Documents Needed from the Member

The RS or EQ president should counsel with their respective counselors before making a recommendation to the bishop.

This means:

• Relief Society president counsels with the Relief Society presidency.
• Elders quorum president counsels with the elders quorum presidency.
• Discuss the situation confidentially and respectfully.
• Avoid sharing unnecessary personal details.
• Focus on the member’s welfare, self-reliance, ministering needs, and possible support.
• Identify who will help the member gather documents or complete the Self-Reliance Plan.
• Decide what recommendation or observations should be shared with the bishop.

This presidency discussion helps leaders avoid making decisions alone and allows the presidency to minister more effectively.

Step 2: Counsel with the Presidency

Begin by listening with love and respect. The purpose is to understand the member’s real need, not just the amount being requested.

1. How urgent is the situation?
2. Is this a one-time emergency or an ongoing concern?
3. What income or support does the family currently have?

Use the Self-Reliance Plan to help the member identify immediate needs such as food, medical care, emotional care, clothing, or housing. It also helps review income, expenses, and possible reductions.

Step 1: Understand the Situation

Step 3: Documents Needed

Step 3: Review family support

Step 4: Review outside resources

Step 5:  Calculate remaining need

Step 6: Check previous assistance

Discuss the 3 Documents Needed from the Member

Fast Offering Assistance Guide

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