Charitable Fund for Those Awaiting SSI Adjudication

Many of the most vulnerable members of our society—those struggling with severe mental illness or disability—endure months or even years of instability while awaiting a decision on their SSI applications. During this liminal period, they are often without income, housing, or access to consistent care. This is a silent crisis—and one that too often leads to homelessness, isolation, and suffering.

When we have more funds, Clergy Care Collective will establish a Charitable Fund to support individuals in this critical waiting period. While we do not have the resources to operate a shelter, we seek to walk alongside those who are waiting, offering small but meaningful acts of solidarity: gift cards for food and transportation, emergency lodging assistance, referrals to legal aid or disability advocates, and education about financial tools such as ABLE accounts and special needs trusts.

We prioritize those whose applications are rooted in serious mental illness—especially individuals who have no family support and are at heightened risk of falling through the cracks. Where possible, we connect recipients with pastoral care, recognizing that the spiritual toll of prolonged uncertainty can be as deep as the material one.

We also advocate for greatly increasing the SSI monthly benefit amount and taking away the asset limit. We further advocate for universal health care, and for increased housing and food allowances for vulnerable populations.

We invite those with means to contribute to this fund as an act of justice and compassion. Even small donations can make a profound difference in someone's life while they await the help they are legally entitled to. In the name of Christ, we seek to affirm their dignity, share their burden, and bring light to the waiting.