Helping Hands is a fund created by an anonymous donor specifically designated for Hancock, NH residents who are in crisis. It is not apart of the Town of Hancock budget, nor is it a part of the church budget, but the donor did specify that the First Congregational Church oversee the fund.
Today the members of the Church Council, which includes the pastor, oversees the fund. We understand how difficult it is to ask for help which is why when a resident makes a request we work very hard to keep the identity of the resident anonomys to the Council. Only the circumstances of the crisis and the specific request are discussed. Each request is handled individually as we have learned each crisis is unique. Money is awarded for specific bills that help bring a person or family out of crisis and is paid directly to a vendor. Money is not awarded to an individual. We ask all recipients to connect with the Grapevine, and the Town of Hancock welfare officer to connect with all resources possible.
Residents in crisis may ask for financial assistance by emailing the church office at office@hancocknhchurch.org or texting 603-289-1989.
If you would like to give to the fund use the Give tab and select Helping Hands. You may also mail a check to Helping Hands, c/o First Congregational Church, PO Box 98, Hanock, NH 03449.
The fund has been in existence for about 10 years. It has helped residents with bills such as housing, fuel, transportation, medical bills, and utilities.
The fund is invested so the gift of the donor may be avaible for as long as possible. Many residents of Hancock have also given to the fund.