Three area Mennonite Churches received grants from Everence Financial (formerly Mennonite Mutual Aid) in 2011 to help provide needed financial assistance to help people facing financial challenges.

First Mennonite, Bluffton, received $2,890, Grace, Pandora, received $1,750, and St. John, Pandora, received $3,000.

In 2011, the Everence Sharing Fund gave more than $924,000 in matching grants to 2,049 families across the country.

The grants help members facing financial distress because of lost employment, medical bills or those struggling to pay for basic living expenses. The program also supports other church needs like community aid or service projects.

Phyllis Mishler, Member Benefits Manager for Everence, said the grants are part of how Everence and Everence Federal Credit Union fulfill their joint mission - and work together to support the financial needs of local congregation members.

"To our members seeking to express their faith in their financial lives, the Sharing Fund is one of the most important ways we work with their congregations," Mishler said. "For an individual need, congregation program, or community need, they can turn to the Sharing Fund for financial support."

The Everence grants are funded primarily by members who own Everence products or use Everence Federal Credit Union banking services. Because of the organization's unique tax status, money that would be paid in federal taxes instead is distributed through mutual aid - including the Sharing Fund. However, Mishler noted, grant money also comes from other sources.

"As a company, Everence tithes on its income by donating to the Sharing Fund, plus many staff contribute generously, and we also receive contributions from others who support the Sharing Fund," Mishler said. "These grants are part of our commitment to help our communities thrive."

The Sharing Fund accepts contributions throughout the year. To donate, visit Everence.com or call (800) 348-7468 ext. 3301.

Everence helps individuals, organizations and congregations integrate finances with faith through a national team of advisors and representatives. Everence offers banking, insurance and financial services with community benefits and stewardship education.

Everence is a ministry of Mennonite Church USA and other churches. To learn more, visit Everence.com or call (800) 348-7468.