Tech Forum

What are some examples of fast offering assistance that would come from the 'Fast Offerings - Other' category?

Specifically, our bishop was wondering if it would be inappropriate to help a needy family pay for girls camp (approx. $25) from this category.

cougs wrote:What are some examples of fast offering assistance that would come from the 'Fast Offerings - Other' category?

That category is used for any valid fast offering expenses that are not Housing, Utilities, or Medical. I've seen all sorts of expenses in this category, from car payments to tuition fees for a class to improve the employability of a person out of work.

cougs wrote:Specifically, our bishop was wondering if it would be inappropriate to help a needy family pay for girls camp (approx. $25) from this category.

To me, that seems like a stretch. Fast offering funds are used to meet members temporal needs. Girls camp is an activity that doesn't seem to fit in that category, especially since payment for the camp is not a financial obligation: never should "the lack of personal funds prohibit a member from participating" (Handbook 2, 13.2.8). Budget funds pay for activities, and the only provision for any other source of funding mentioned in the handbooks is participants paying or a group fund-raising activity.

If the bishop still has questions, he may wish to consult with the stake president. They hold the keys to interpreting and applying policy.

cougs wrote:Specifically, our bishop was wondering if it would be inappropriate to help a needy family pay for girls camp (approx. $25) from this category.

In my opinion, yes. Unlike scout camp, girl's camp is fully run by the ward/stake and therefore if someone is having financially difficulty, it seems the best approach would be to waive the fee for her.

crislapi wrote:In my opinion, yes. Unlike scout camp, girl's camp is fully run by the ward/stake and therefore if someone is having financially difficulty, it seems the best approach would be to waive the fee for her.

This is for the bishop and/or stake president to decide. Our bishop and stake president have determined that the most appropriate way to cover such a situation is for the funds to come from the unit budget.