About DEAM

What is DEAM?

DEAM (Decatur-area Emergency Assistance Ministry) is a ministry supported primarily by 18 area churches who seek to meet the emergency needs of the less fortunate in the community.

Why is DEAM needed?

• ‍Member churches can refer needy cases to DEAM, thereby reducing the stress on their ministers and staff.
• ‍Comprehensive records can be maintained in the DEAM office to minimize duplication of aid.
• ‍Those in need can be spared the necessity of going from one church to another in search of assistance.
• ‍DEAM often can better connect someone in need with appropriate government and independent resources within the community.

How is DEAM related to Decatur Cooperative Ministry (DCM)?

In 1973, DCM created DEAM as an effective way to provide emergency assistance to individuals and families. In 1977, a DCM task force recommended that DEAM become an independent and separate ministry. The governing body of each church adopted this proposal. The first year that DEAM was independent, it operated under a DCM seed grant and sponsorship. Since that time, DEAM has been completely self-sustaining.

Who operates DEAM?

A lay representative from each member church and two church staff persons comprise the DEAM Coordinating Council, which meets five times a year and makes all decisions on policies and finances. An Executive Committee oversees the day-to-day operations and brings policy and financial decisions before the Council for action.

Who works at DEAM?

Trained volunteers, working one or two days per month, staff the office and food pantry. Two salaried part-time administrators oversee operations during DEAM's office hours. Click here to learn more about how to volunteer.

How is DEAM supported financially?

• By allocations in the budgets of the 18 supporting churches;
• By gifts from church groups;
• By contributions from community organizations;
• By contributions from individuals.

How can I help DEAM?

• ‍By volunteering to work in the DEAM office or food pantry;
• ‍By gifts of money;
• By understanding the outreach ministry;
• By making DEAM a project in your next Sunday School class, church, or organization;
• By choosing DEAM as a charity with Kroger.

What is DEAM's tax status?

DEAM is a designated non-profit charity 501(c)(3) as defined by the IRS. Our office will furnish an acknowledgement letter for any monetary donations so that the donor may use it to document their donation for tax purposes.