What We Do
The Funds for Sufferings Granting Group provides help for the alleviation of the hardships and sufferings of Friends, Friends groups, and others – such suffering occasioned by obedience to the leadings of God’s spirit, or to conscience, consistent with Quaker testimonies. Assistance for legal defense or bail bond may be granted.
Who We Are
Appointed by the PYM Granting Committee; the current members are Yolanda Covarrubias, Lee Garner (Clerk), Justin Loughry, Patricia Rettig, Lisa Rooney and Paul Sheldon.
Contact
Lee Garner, Clerk
lee2garner@aol.com
(215) 813-6449 (text)
(215) 387-7157 (voicemail)
How To Apply
Download the Fund for Sufferings Fact Sheet [PDF] for application details.. Requests for assistance can come from the individual concerned, from a Monthly Meeting on behalf of an individual, or in special cases from someone or a group close to the person involved. If time allows, the request should be in writing. If urgent, and unable to reach the Clerk at the number listed, phone the Yearly Meeting office at 215-241-7000. Applicants from other areas and categories also considered. Applications are considering on a rolling basis; there are no deadlines for applications.
Funds
Funds For Sufferings are provided by Philadelphia Yearly Meeting, through income donated by individuals, Meetings, and others who wish to stand in unity with those taking risks for their beliefs. All payments to the Fund will be considered gifts. Payments to the Fund may be made by checks payable to Philadelphia Yearly Meeting, designated “Fund for Sufferings.” The Fund shall be used, to the extent available, for the alleviation of the hardships and sufferings of Friends, Friends groups, and others — such suffering occasioned by obedience to the leadings of God’s spirit, or to conscience, consistent with Quaker testimonies. Assistance for legal defense or bail bond may be granted.