Referring Clients to The Blue Card
The Blue Card’s mission is to provide financial assistance to needy Holocaust survivors. The Blue Card is an agency of last resort and fills a need in areas unmet by other agencies and public programs. Grant amounts depend upon financial need, as well as upon resources.
The Blue Card is a financial aid organization, not a social service agency. Potential clients must be referred by a social worker that first performs a financial assessment and helps the client access all entitlements. The client should also be guided in applying for government assistance by their social worker.
Please inform your clients that we do not work directly with survivors. All questions and concerns should be brought to the referring social worker.
Referral on your agency’s letterhead should include:
- A brief Holocaust history for the client covering the years 1933-1945 with dates and places
- Your recommendation for The Blue Card services for the client, why you believe the service is necessary for that particular person, and any relevant medical or financial history regarding the client's need for assistance
- Statement as to why the client is not eligible for government or agency assistance, if applicable
- Please explain how your agency is assisting the survivor
- Our questionnaire does not replace your narrative and referral
The Blue Card provides several forms of financial aid:
- Claims Conference Emergency Assistance Program (medical, dental, minor home modification, and burial needs)
- The Blue Card funded programs (holiday, birthday, Telephone Emergency Response System, monthly stipend, battery operated companion pet, mood light box, Cost Plus Drug Company Partnership)
- Please reach out to us to inquire about your area's eligibility before applying for the above programs
Please enclose the following current proofs of income and expenses:
- Photo ID
- Award letter from SSI, SSA, SSD
- Lease/Rental agreement, Rent Increase Exemption Letter (SCRIE), (if applicable)
- SNAP award letter (if not receiving, please provide current asset information)
- Last month’s bank statement showing expenses listed on the financial form
- Supporting documentation for the request from the vendor if applicable