|     "Clark Cares" Dignity in Home Going Fund  

Because every family deserves a dignified goodbye. 

How the fund works

• Purpose: One‑time micro‑grants that bridge verified, final affordability gaps for at‑need families.

• Scope: Available to families in Randolph County and nearby communities, regardless of which licensed funeral home they choose.

• Typical grant range: $250–$1,000 (based on verified need and available funds).

• Payment: Directly to the funeral home upon invoice; no cash is given to applicants.

• Limit: One grant per deceased individual; households limited to one grant in 24 months.

• Administration: Decisions made by an independent 3-person committee; published guidelines; annual impact report.

Why this matters

• Preserves dignity for families at a tender moment.

• Protects the sustainability of Black funeral service professionals who have long carried communities at below-market prices.

• Honors a civil-rights legacy of mutual aid, fairness, and neighborly love.

Your gift at work (illustrative)

• $75 covers certified death certificates and permits.

• $250 helps with a cremation container, basic clothing, or obituaries.

• $500 closes the final gap for essential professional services.

• $1,000 ensures complete dignity for a family with no remaining options.

• Monthly gifts join the Torchbearers Circle—sustaining help all year.

MAKE AN IMPACT TODAY FOR FAMILIES IN NEED
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ALL Gifts are restricted to the Clark Cares program and reported annually for transparency.

Eligibility & Application (public summary)

• Submit a simple form (family name, contact, funeral home contact, invoice showing remaining balance, brief statement of need).

• Provide verification (ID, proof of residence, and—in hardship cases—income/benefit documentation).

• Committee reviews within 3 business days; emergency fast‑track when possible.

• If approved, payment is made directly to the funeral home for the balance approved.

Safeguards & Conflict‑of‑Interest

• Vendor‑neutral: Families may use any licensed funeral home; the fund does not steer families.

• Firewalls: Foundation staff handling applications are separate from any funeral service operations.

• Published guidelines and annual report (total grants, average grant, counties served) protect integrity.

FAQ

• Does the fund cover the full cost of services?
  No. It bridges the final gap after discounts, insurance, or family contributions.

• Can funds be paid to an individual?
  No. Payment goes directly to the funeral home on an approved invoice.

• What if requests exceed funds available?
  We prioritize verified need and time‑sensitivity; donors can designate emergency replenishment gifts.

• Will my gift help families who don’t use Clark Memorial Funeral Service?
  Yes. The fund is community‑wide and vendor‑neutral by design.

• Is assistance guaranteed?
  No. Awards depend on eligibility and available funds. Policies may evolve to improve fairness and impact.

(Contributions support our programs but are not tax-deductible as charitable donations (501(c)(4) status).”

DONATION FAQ 

• Is my gift tax-deductible?
  The Wilkie Clark Memorial Foundation is a recognized 501(c)(4) social welfare organization. Contributions support our programs, but are not tax-deductible as charitable donations.

• Can I restrict my gift to specific initiatives?
  Yes — note "Clark Cares" in the memo line.
  If you prefer to contribute to the R.C.T.S. Scholarship Initiative, please visit this link:  RCTS Scholarship Fund

• Can my business contribute?
  Absolutely. We welcome corporate partners; contact us for recognition options.

“Contributions support our programs but are not tax-deductible as charitable donations (501(c)(4) status).”