Fund for Individual Case Assistance
Caritas's individual case assistance is designed for people who are facing acute financial hardship and need rapid assistance for a short time. As part of Caritas's social counseling services, individual case assistance offers financial support when people cannot cover essential expenses. Examples include overdue rent, health insurance premiums, unexpected bills or other necessary expenses for children, health or education. The goal of this service is to reduce existential burdens and provide relief to people facing these difficult situations.
Who is eligible?
Individual case assistance is for low-income individuals and families and those in precarious financial circumstances. It is primarily intended for people who do not receive or are not yet receiving government assistance, those whose residence status limits their benefits, and those who are employed but not adequately protected. The aid offers a bridge when they incur urgent costs through no fault of their own and they cannot cover those costs themselves.
How it works
A case worker meets with the applicant to understand their unique situation. Together, they determine whether the applicant is eligible for individual case assistance. In addition to financial bridging, they work on ideas to help the applicant achieve greater financial stability. This can include budgeting advice, assistance in dealing with government agencies, or referring the applicant to relevant specialists such as debt counseling services. Decisions on financial contributions are made after carefully examining the applicant's financial situation and the urgency of the matter.
Individual case assistance is a one-time or short-term service, and it does not replace long-term social assistance or welfare. It is meant to help with a specific emergency and help safeguard the applicant's immediate living situation.
Social counseling services in your area
People who need assistance should contact the social counseling service of their regional Caritas organization. A case worker will determine what type of assistance is appropriate and what documents are needed to apply. The consultation is confidential and free of charge.
Header image: Individual Case Assistance