Provider of assistance to impoverished families and individuals means a public or private, not-for-profit tax-exempt organization whose primary function is to provide money, goods, or services to families or individuals whose annual income are below the poverty line (as defined in section 673 of the Community Services).  Providers include food banks, self-help housing groups, and organizations providing services such as the following:  Health care; medical transportation; scholarships and tuition assistance; tutoring and literacy instruction; job training and placement; employment counseling; child care assistance; meals or other nutritional support; clothing distribution; home construction or repairs; utility or rental assistance; and legal counsel.  Personal property acquired through the donation program by such organizations or institutions must be used exclusively in their programs for providing assistance to impoverished families and individuals. 

Section 1 of Public Law 105-50, signed by President Clinton on October 6, 1997, amended section 203 (j) (3) (B) of the Federal Property and Administrative Services Act of 1949, as amended, to add nonprofit organizations that provide assistance to impoverished to the list of organizations eligible to acquire surplus personal property for educational or public health purposes. 

Legislative history indicates that the intent of this section was to provide surplus property eligibility to charitable organizations such as food banks, Habitat for Humanity, and the Salvation Army.  These groups provide goods and services that contribute to the educational growth or general health and well-being of individuals and families below the poverty line.   

If the provider is a nonprofit, a copy of their tax-exemption under the provisions of Section 501 if the Internal Revenue Code of 1954 must accompany the application. 

A detailed narrative description of its programs and facilities must be included with the application.  The narrative must include funding sources, services provided to impoverished families and individuals, the number of clients receiving assistance, facilities occupied, hours of operations and community or area served. 

A copy of its articles of incorporation or other organizing document, bylaws or similar documentation, and latest annual financial statement.  Included may be brochures, news articles, catalogs, etc., describing its programs and services. 

Proof of accreditation, approval, or licensing when required; e.g. child care centers, dental clinics, health centers, etc. 

Evidence that it is a publicly recognized provider of assistance to the impoverished; e.g., a letter from the State, county, or municipal official having responsibility for the welfare of the poor (mayor, head of welfare department, social services director, etc.) certifying that the applicant is a provider of assistance to the impoverished.  Another acceptable form of evidence would be the documented receipt of Federal/State Block Grant funds for poverty programs.

• Application Return Checklist 
• Application for Eligibility
• Certifications & Agereements 
• Return Policy