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WAMA explains internal guidelines for disbursing funds

The Warren Area Ministerial Association (WAMA) makes donations to the needy and accepts requests to that end.

In the interests of transparency, WAMA has shared its internal guidelines regarding the disbursal of funds.

Those guidelines are:
When an individual or family is seeking financial assistance, an application will be completed by the individual seeking the assistance. A copy of photo identification is also requested. Once the application is completed, the treasurer is empowered to offer assistance within consideration of the current WAMA account balance.

In the event that additional funds are being requested beyond the initial application, two additional WAMA board members, selected annually, should be sought for council by the treasurer.

Following approval, the treasurer is empowered to provide funds to the merchant or business to which the applicant is indebted. No cash is to be distributed to any individuals. Examples would include, but not be limited to, housing, utilities, food, fuel, cellular provider, phone/internet, etc.

When an invoice is paid, a printed receipt should be attached to the application. In the event a charge card is used for an internet/phone payment or an in-store transaction – such as food gift card, “at the pump” fuel, etc. – a check requisition form should be completed and the receipt attached to the application.

Funds available are typically provided from the receipts of donations. These donations come randomly from individuals, as well as church offerings received during WAMA community services, such as Ash Wednesday, Good Friday, Salamonie Festival service, Thanksgiving, Third Wednesday service, etc.

When an offering is received, three individuals shall count and record the funds. The total amount will be tabulated and tellers shall sign and complete a form for deposit into the WAMA account. The deposit receipt shall then be attached to the counter’s form.

During the regular monthly WAMA meeting, the treasurer is expected to continue providing a monthly update of account information and bank statement and report on benevolence opportunities where funds have been distributed.

For more information, contact WAMA Treasurer Steven Spencer, pastor of Hillcrest Church of the Nazarene, or WAMA President Paul Burris, pastor of Solid Rock United Methodist Church.