Purchasing Emergency Supplies for Members

[Hilohi]

We were thinking about purchasing emergency supplies such as flashlights and emergency food for our ward members who don't have enough money to buy those things for themselves. Are there any Church guidelines that would suggest that we not use Church funds for that? If not, would it be better to use our ward budget or fast offerings?

[jdlessley]

Guidance for use of ward budget funds is found in General Handbook, 34.7. General guidance states "stake and ward budget funds should be used to pay for all activities, programs, manuals, and supplies." I am not going to interpret that guidance. That is the purview of local leaders (bishop and stake president). When the question, "What is the program or activity the budget funds are supporting?", is asked, what is the answer?

Bishops draw on the general world-wide fast offering fund as needed to provide short-term shelter, medical assistance, and other life-sustaining aid (Paying Expenses of Ward Members). These funds are used to sustain life rather than sustain a life style. Again, it is up to the bishop and stake president to determine whether the aid provided by the funds is necessary to sustain life.

[russellhltn]

I'd think this might depend on how immediate the threat is. Buying them as part of a kit way ahead of time would be different than hours prior to a hurricane hitting.