FAQs
Must my church be a 501(c)(3)?
Most churches automatically are granted tax-exempt status. Some churches may have applied for official tax-exempt status with the IRS and been granted an IRS Determination Letter. If your church is a member of a well-known denomination (e.g., Catholic, Episcopalian, Lutheran, Methodist, UCC, Presbyterian, etc.), you are likely covered under the denomination’s umbrella 501(c)(3). Unfortunately, non-denominational churches (and other independent churches not aligned with broader denomination) that are not 501(c)(3)s may not be eligible for this program—unless they meet the attributes defined by the IRS: Definition of church | Internal Revenue Service.
If you have an IRS Determination Letter on record, we would appreciate a copy for our records.
What documentation does Trials to Triumph Foundation need to see?
Nothing from the individual/family in need. From the church, we would need the church's Employer Identification Number (EIN) for our records. For donations over $250, we would also need a charitable receipt.
Should you advertise Trials to Triumph in your church and tell those in need that the money provided came from our foundation--or solicit requests for help?
For the initial rollout -- and until we are better able to determine demand, we ask that you do not mention that the money came from Trials to Triumph; the churches can deliver the blessing and take the credit. We also ask that you just accommodate those who come to you with requests. This will eliminate lines out the door for both our organizations--and help local pastors foster a culture of community with their churches. This may change as we shift to more fundraising and fine-tune our joint processes.
Will T3 ONLY help those individuals who are congregants of the church or their friends/families?
Those are the individuals we strive to assist; however, if you receive a genuine request from an individual outside of the church, please let us know--and we will see if we can assist them as well. If those individuals are assisted, you can use it as an opportunity to invite them to church services. Some examples:
"My only ask is that you attend a church service on Sunday." Or, "This gift is from our congregation, will you please join us Sunday so we can put a face to the request?"
Will every person you ask T3 to assist be provided financial support--and for the amount they request?
T3 does have a budget, so we will try our best to accommodate requests, but we will best determine who we are able to assist and the extent of financial support we can provide. The more money we can raise, the more we can help.
Is there a form the church can give to an applicant to ensure they have a genuine need?
Yes, please click here to download an editable form that can be utilized. In addition, you can make a phone call or two for verification purposes or ask for more information. T3 does not need to see the form. If you are comfortable with the request, we trust your discernment.
Must those assisted be residents of Schuylkill County?
By and large, yes. However, if you receive a genuine request from an individual outside of Schuylkill County, please let us know--and we will see if we can assist them as well.
What if the request is not medical, but the person is truly in need?
Our preference is assisting those facing health issues and unable to pay their core bills. However, if you receive a request from someone with true needs that are not caused by medical issues, please contact us, and we will see if we can assist them as well.