Frequently Asked Questions

ASSISTANCE

Who is eligible to receive assistance?

The Real Life Center serves permanent residents of Fayette and Coweta Counties.

Does it cost anything to receive services?

There is no charge for our services. Many of the community resources to which we refer are also free of charge. However, when a referral is made to a professional within the community, the fee associated with the service is the responsibility of the person seeking care. Services are available to all persons without regard to race, income, gender or religion.

What must I do to receive financial assistance?

You must make an appointment to meet with one of our assessment counselors in order to receive assistance from us. Appointments are taken by phone Monday mornings starting at 9 AM for Coweta County residents and on Tuesday mornings starting at 9 AM for Fayette County residents. The Real Life Center does not assist with walk-in financial needs.

How frequently do you assist with financial needs?

We typically provide financial assistance only one time during the one-year program.  This ensures that we have the funding available to assist families throughout the year.

I am in dire need of food. Can the RLC help?

Yes. You may walk in for a one-time emergency food visit during our regular business hours. In order to continue to use the food pantry you need to make an appointment to meet with one of our assessment counselors.

Do you help with deposits?

We do not help with deposits for rent or utilities.

Do you assist with housing?

We can assist with rental payments, but we do not help with housing placement. We do, however, have resources available for the local area.

I need a job. Do you offer job placement?

We do not offer job placement.  However, we do have a career and job coaching program.  Click here for more information.

The RLC is a faith-based organization. Must I hear about God in order to receive help?

No. The mission of The Real Life Center is to show the love of God by loving others and to show compassion and provide hope through our programs. We help individuals and families based on their needs, not religious affiliations.

DONATIONS

Can I contribute financially?

Absolutely.  You can make a donation online through our secure server, or mail us a check or gift card.  Click here to go to our Donation page for more detailed information and instructions.

Am I able to specify how my financial donation is to be used?

We have three options available for designation.  Click here for more detailed information and instructions.  If you have a special request, please contact us directly.

What are your greatest, ongoing needs?

Lack of food and financial stability are two of the primary reasons families seek assistance from the RLC.  Therefore donations of non-perishable food items and financial gifts continue to be our primary needs.  For a list of our most needed food items, click here.

When can I drop off my donations?

Our donation hours are Monday–Thursday, 9:00 am–12:00 pm.  In order to prevent spoilage and insect/rodent infestation, we ask that you please donate food during open hours only.

VOLUNTEERING

What do volunteers do at the Real Life Center?

There are many different ways to serve at the RLC…performing administrative tasks, escorting clients while they shop, stocking our food shelves, and helping out in our orchard and garden to name just a few.  Visit our Volunteer page for more details.

How do I sign up to become a volunteer?

Visit our Volunteer page for more information and to access our volunteer sign-up forms.

What is the minimum age to volunteer?

The minimum age for volunteering at the Real Life Center is 14 when accompanied by an adult.  If not accompanied by an adult you must be at least 16 years old. Children of all ages are welcome to help harvest fruit with their families at the Harvest for Real Life Fruit Orchard.  

Can I earn service hours for scouting or school groups?

Students interested in earning community service hours for school or scouting are welcome to serve at the Real Life Center and the Harvest for Real Life Fruit Orchard. Prior registration is required, and a Release and Waiver Form must be signed by a parent or guardian.  Contact our Volunteer Coordinator for more information.

GENERAL

The Real Life Center is a faith-based organization. Must I hear about God in order to receive help?

No. But we will demonstrate to you God’s love by providing a safe environment, compassion, and hope through our programs. We help individuals and families based on their needs, not religious affiliations.

Must I be enrolled in your one-year program in order to take educational classes?

No. The classes are open to the public.  However, space is limited on a first-come, first-served basis.