The Matthews HELP Center has been serving and caring for the people of Matthews and the surrounding communities since 1979.  Click on the following services to learn more about what MHC provides: Crisis Assistance English as Second Language Classes (ESL) Information and Referral Community Connection Health Related Services Food and Nutrition Services Clothing Seasonal Programs (Adopt a Family, Backpack Program, etc.)       Crisis Assistance We can often assist with food, clothing, rent, utilities and/or medical bills after a staff evaluation of need. We operate by appointment. The following is a list of things we need in order to make an assessment of need.  Please bring these items to your appointment. Picture ID for all adults: Driver’s license, state picture ID, or passport Social Security Card for all household members Proof of Income for everyone in the household: check stubs, a letter from employer verifying pay or proof of any income household has (all room mates, etc.) Receipts to show how household has recently spent money they have had: insurance, bills paid, etc. Proof of emergency:  Doctor’s disability statement, medical bills, eviction notice, cut-off notices. Rental/Homeowners information: Rent receipts, lease, landlord’s name and phone number, mortgage papers.   back to top       English as Second Language Classes (ESL) Beginner classes. Tuition, book and materials provided free of charge. Monday and Thursday evenings, 6-8 pm Taught by Central Piedmont Community College Instructors. Summer Session begins Monday, May 19th and lasts for 8 weeks, ending Thursday, July 10th. Contact Patti at 704-847-8383 ext. 222 for info.   back to top       Information and Referral Our Social Worker can provide links to other sources of assistance.   back to top       Community Connection Coordination between community resources, contributors and residents in need.   back to top       Health Related Services Registered nurse at Center Wednesday and Friday 9:30am - 12:00pm. Medical Equipment to lend.   back to top       Food and Nutrition Services Meals delivered by volunteers to the homebound. (Meals provided through Friendship Trays.) Food Pantry   back to top       Clothing Donated clothing and household items are available at minimal cost in Backporch Treasures, our Thrift Shop. Visit our Thrift Shop page for more information.   back to top       Seasonal Programs Back to School Program - The Matthews HELP Center works with the Kiwanis club to provide new clothing and school supplies to area children who are in need.  The Kiwanis club takes the families shopping for clothing, while the MHC provides a new backpack and school supplies for each participating child. These items are provided through donors. Each year 100+ children are served.   Holiday Adoption Program - The Matthews HELP Center identifies needy families in the area and matches them with various donors to provide holiday gifts and food. Approximately 130 families were served in 2006.  If you are interested in these programs, please contact Molly Kennedy by email, or at (704) 847-8383, ext. 224.     back to top