Ensuring Help Reaches Those Who Truly Need It
At our Refuge Builders, we are committed to helping as many churches and families as possible—but because our resources are limited, we must ensure that the assistance we provide goes to those who genuinely cannot afford the needed repairs. We believe in biblical stewardship and in honoring the generosity of those who support this ministry.
We striveto act with wisdom and discernment: “The wise store up choice food and olive oil, but fools gulp theirs down” (Proverbs 21:20).
In the same way, we strive to use the labor God has entrusted to us wisely and purposefully.
There is a very real difference between a want and a need.
A want might be a cosmetic upgrade, a preference for a newer style, or a room that someone simply wishes looked different.
A need is a leaking roof, unsafe flooring, broken plumbing, or a structural issue compromising a home or church building.
Our calling is to meet legitimate needs—especially for those who face financial hardship and physical limitations.
How We Evaluate Requests
To ensure fairness and good stewardship, we follow a structured and grace-filled vetting process:
- Initial Request Form
We ask every church or individual seeking help to fill out a simple form describing:
- The type of repair or remodel needed
- Whether the project is structural, safety-related, or cosmetic
- The urgency of the issue
- Photos of the affected area (if possible)
- Financial Assessment
We never shame anyone for their financial situation—but we do ask for honesty.
To determine true need, we request basic information such as:
- Whether the person or church has received repair assistance recently
- Current financial limitations
- Ability (or lack thereof) to hire a contractor
- Any special hardships (disability, widowhood, fixed income, job loss, etc.)
This helps us discern whether the request reflects a genuine need, not simply a desire for free labor.
- On-Site Evaluation
When possible, a team member will:
- Inspect the issue
- Confirm the urgency and safety concerns
- Determine whether the project is within our skill set
- Identify what materials are required
- Priority Ranking
Projects are prioritized by:
- Safety concerns (roof leaks, electrical hazards, damaged flooring, plumbing failures)
- Accessibility needs (ramps, grab bars, mobility assistance modifications)
- Essential maintenance for churches (sanctuary repairs, bathrooms, HVAC, etc.)
- Non-essential or cosmetic upgrades (painting for aesthetics, style changes, optional remodels)
We are committed to meeting needs first.
- Prayerful Decision
All final decisions are made prayerfully as a team, seeking God’s wisdom and guidance to steward our time and resources faithfully.
Our goal is never exclusion—it is ensuring that those in true hardship receive help when no one else is able to step in.
Why This Vetting Process Matters
Because our ministry provides free labor, we must ensure that generosity is not misused.
We are here to serve widows, families on fixed incomes, aging churches, and those who cannot afford repairs—not to compete with professionals or supply free upgrades to those who can easily pay for them.
Being responsible with God’s blessings helps us:
- Reach more people
- Prevent misuse of donated funds
- Protect the mission
- Serve those who truly have no other help
As Scripture reminds us, “Let everything be done decently and in order” (1 Corinthians 14:40).