History of the Organization

In 1986, when flooding ravaged portions of the North Hills, local religious and community leaders began working together to assist flood victims, directing the resources offered by congregations, businesses, civic organizations and individuals to best meet the needs of affected families. When the flood work was over, it was clear that there was a real need in the community for an organization that addresses basic needs. As a result, North Hills Community Outreach was incorporated in 1987 as an organization of People Helping People.

NHCO's parent organization is St. Paul's United Methodist Church.

Statistics from 2008-09 Fiscal Year

In 2008-09, NHCO assisted 4,608 families in need toward stability and self-sufficiency by providing $918,713 in funds, goods and services (information, support and advocacy). By bringing our hearts and hands together, no one in northern Allegheny County needs to feel cold, hungry or alone.

• 2,321 at Millvale Satellite
• 1,598 at Allison Park
• 1,396 at North Boroughs Satellite

Some received help at more than one location.

Services include: two food pantries (1,206 helped in 2008-09), emergency financial assistance, utility help (1,302), employment services (161), legal consultations (107), college scholarships, Faith in Action caregiving (583 elderly helped by 92 volunteers), seasonal sharing projects ($186,603 distributed to 1,170 families), Family Savings Accounts, shuttle bus for senior transportation (254 seniors received 6,229 free rides), a partnership with Community Auto, and much more. NHCO develops programming in response to unmet community needs, working in cooperation with other organizations to the greatest possible extent.

Persons served include those who are hungry, homeless or facing eviction; those without adequate clothing, heat, light, or medical care; persons with disabilities; and those who have experienced natural disasters, such as fire or flood. Crisis can also be caused by illness, divorce, aging, death of a loved one, loss of a job, and addiction. NHCO’s service area is all of northern Allegheny County for the majority of programs; some services are offered throughout the county and in additional counties.

NHCO acts on behalf of the local community and the community supports our efforts. In 2008-09, 4,498 donors and groups supported NHCO:

• 3,554 individuals
• 472 businesses
• 158 religious groups
• 146 civic groups
• 91 school groups
• 45 foundations
• 18 nonprofits
• 14 government entities

Volunteers: 1,104 volunteers (including 285 youth) gave 37,270 hours of their time at NHCO to assist their neighbors in need.

By sharing what we already have, together we can ensure that our neighbors in need receive immediate, compassionate and effective help. This in essence is NHCO's mission.