SEEKING OUT THE POOR & THE NEEDY: 20 QUESTIONS

“Behold, I say unto you, that ye must visit the poor and the needy and administer to their relief, that they may be kept until all things may be done according to my law which ye have received. Amen.” (Doctrine and Covenants Section 44:6)

Finding answers to the questions below helps us to "seek out the poor and the needy," to determine the scope of problems, develop plans, and find needed resources and opportunities for service. As these items become part of our agendas, then we, as ward, stake, and regional welfare committees, can plan and develop solutions with those affected and do all of this "in the Lord's way."  

Within your Church stewardship:

1.	What percent of adults understand and live the law of the fast? (see Isaiah 58:6-12)
2.	Who and how many are struggling financially — and for what reasons?
3.	Who and how many are unemployed — and for what reasons?
4.	Who and how many are underemployed (periodic insufficient income to pay for basics) and why?
5.	Who and how many are in the most vulnerable low-income groups? (single parents, young adults, low-income elderly, less skilled or less educated, etc.)
6.	Are career workshops and other employment service programs for various youth and adult vulnerable groups being held?
7.	What percent of families have a vegetable garden, and know how to prepare and store vegetables?
8.	Who and how many married couples are experiencing severe relationship problems?
9.	Who and how many parents are experiencing severe parenting challenges?
10.	Who and how many individuals are experiencing mental illness, addictions, or related challenges?
11.	Who and how many unwed parents are within your stewardship?
12.	Who and how many could benefit from a vocational training or educational program via Deseret Industries, or similar programs?
13.	Who and how many are struggling with moderate to severe health challenges?
14.	Who and how many widows or older singles need special attention?
15.	Do your members know about and apply good nutrition in the purchase and preparation of food?
16.	What percent of your members have a one-year supply of food and other storage items?   Six months, three months, none, etc.?
17.	What percent of your members have an adequate financial reserve?
18.	What percent of your members engage in voluntary service annually in behalf of the poor and needy? (neighborhood, community, Church welfare and humanitarian projects, etc.)
19.	Do you have welfare specialists identified who pro-actively help with the above challenges and opportunities?
20.	Are all or most of the above-listed issues on welfare committee agendas at some point in the year (stake welfare committee, bishops' council, ward welfare committee, quorum, and Relief Society presidency agendas)?