MISSOURI FUEL FUND

• The Mid America Assistance Coalition (MAAC) of Kansas City, Missouri, provides training and support for case managers to help homeless families. Since its establishment in 1994, this program has helped train agencies and case managers, and assisted nearly 200 homeless families in moving toward independence. MAAC also manages the fuel funds of five utility companies in Missouri as well as a trust fund established by the Jackson County legislature. It also verifies eligibility for the Federal Emergency Management Agency funds, which help low-income clients with food, utilities and rent.
  
  MAAC has regularly received funds through a little known resource, the Neighborhood Assistance Program (NAP). In effect in thirteen states, NAP allows state governments to provide tax credits to contributing businesses. Businesses receive a tax credit equal to one half of their contributions to eligible programs. MAAC has received credits of about $50,000 annually on behalf of Project Link and its Information and Referral hot-line, which handles over 14,000 emergency calls per year and directs people to the nearest source of food, energy assistance, shelter and other basic needs.
  
  MAAC received $595,719 through Warmth & Light, Dollar Aide, Energy Aid, Neighbors Helping Neighbors, and the Jackson County Energy Assistance Program for utility assistance in FY 2000-2001. Funds were distributed throughout the year to more than 50 social service organizations that provided direct emergency assistance to 3,879 low-income and homeless individuals and families.

• Dollar-Help, Inc. (DHI) was founded in 1982 and partners with Laclede Gas Company who matches customer donations $1 for every $5 up to $4,000 per month.  Laclede Gas also donates all administration, fund raising and promotion expenses. In 1984, local congregations became involved and initiated Super Dollar-Help Weekend to raise funds for DHI.