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KAIR

KAIR Keys Area Interdenominational
Resources 1999-2009 Celebrating
10 Years of KAIRing!
MISSION KAIR seeks to serve those individuals and families in Marathon and the Florida Keys who have found themselves in
crisis. Working in partnership with other agencies and organizations, every effort is made to return people to self-supporting,
productive lives.
HISTORY KAIR was incorporated in 1999 as a non-profit agency through a collaboration of local churches. This faith-based
organization is now funded through public and private grants, donations, and fund raisers. Through the
years KAIR has played an increasingly important role in providing emergency services. The food panty is the only USDA certified
food panty between MM30 and MM92; KAIR distributes 7,000 pounds of food per month.
HOW IT WORKS Those
seeking assistance meet with a trained case worker who does a needs assessment and develops a plan for increased self-sufficiency.
Follow-up is provided on an individual basis.
SERVICES OF KAIR FOOD PANTRY - The food pantry obtains their food through individual
donations, and local food drives. Through its USDA certification, KAIR is able to purchase food from the regional food
bank at a very reduced cost. The food pantry assists individuals, families and senior citizens with meeting basic food
needs. Bag lunches for the homeless and transients are also offered. MEDICAL ASSISTANCE - Help is provided
for the purchase of medications, medical tests, and medical treatment for needy residents. KAIR collaborates with the
local medical community to provide needed services. HOUSING ASSISTANCE - Grants for rent, security deposits and utlilities
are provided to families and individuals on an emergency basis. TRANSPORTATION - This includes gasoline or bus tickets for local
travel to work or medical appointments: car repair, if necessary, to maintain employment; relocation assistance for those
who cannot provide for themselves in the Keys.
IN-KIND GOODS - This service includes
distribution of donated household goods. Items vary according to need; bedding, clothing, baby items, cars, appliances
and furniture are some of the items distributed to those in need. LEGAL
DOCUMENTATION - Assistance with legal documents is available in order to assist people to begin work, obtain social
security, receive food stamps and access other potential resources. KIDKAIR
- Kids often have speical needs and this program provides funds and supplies to meet individual situations of children
and their families. RESIDENTIAL BOAT
REFITTING - KAIR provides supplies and installation of fittings that meet regualtions for boat santitation systems.
This allows residents to remain in their "homes".
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