When we look around us at the beauty of Central Bucks County, it’s hard to believe there may be people in our midst who are struggling and in desperate need. But there are many such people – those who are homeless, hungry, sick, impoverished, and lonely. FISH is a Christian organization whose purpose is to provide emergency help for persons in such dire need, and to do it anonymously and without expectation of repayment. In these difficult times the need is immense.

 The volunteer staffers at FISH are on-call around the clock to help with as much assistance as their funding allows. This assistance may include such things as providing a short stay in a motel for a family who has been evicted, giving a mother and her children shelter or food stamps, giving someone a ride to the doctor’s office or a bus ticket home. In effect, FISH is the “Good Samaritan” to many of those who have fallen through the cracks of the traditional county system. They help our neighbors who have no where else to turn.

FISH is an all volunteer group, funded solely by community churches, individuals, businesses, the Doylestown Village Improvement Association Welfare Fund, the Central Bucks Chamber of Commerce and many other sources. Referrals for help come from social service organizations, the Department of Public Assistance, A Woman’s Place, The Crisis Intervention Center of Doylestown Hospital and even individuals who may come across someone in need. FISH welcomes referrals from our churches, of persons who may have emergency needs which cannot be met from within a church’s budget.

 But FISH can only give as much as it receives. Sometimes, a person may have to be sent elsewhere, if the group is out of resources. That is why it is up to us and other believers and Christian groups, to be sure FISH is adequately funded to serve the growing needs of this community. If we give as much as we can, Our Heavenly Father will provide the rest, as He promises in His Word.

 May is the month when we see the beauty of all God has created in the new life around us. Let it also be the time when we remember our brothers and sisters who do not see what we see, and cannot feel God’s blessings at this point in their lives. With our prayers and generous offerings to FISH, we can bring renewal to those in our midst who are turning to us for comfort and support.

 For more information, visit FISH at www.doylestownfish.org   

 Remember God’s Word: Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when was it we saw you hungry and gave you food, or thirsty and gave you something to drink?’…..And the King will answer them, ‘Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me.’    Matt. 25: 37-40