BEAM came into existence because a group of ministers and church members realized the need for an agency to serve those in financial crisis. This solved two problems:

•Church staff were not always able to handle requests for help.

•Many people were going from church to church receiving multiple assistance.

    BEAM conducts an extensive screening process to ensure that only the truly needy residents in emergency situations are assisted. BEAM does not have the funding to give ongoing assistance. When clients are assisted, they are given a list of other agencies that offer help.

Clients should call and schedule an appointment. BEAM has various types of assistance and BEAM interviews clients to determine needs. As with most financial assistance programs, appointments are preferred since certain documentation must be provided. Those in need hear about BEAM from many sources, such as First Call and other agencies, churches, organizations, and word of mouth.