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 2009-10 Fiscal Year

In 2009-10, NHCO assisted 4,915 families in need toward stability and self-sufficiency by providing $1,219,023 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.

• 2,408 at Millvale Satellite
• 1,588 at Allison Park
• 1,502 at North Boroughs Satellite

Some received help at more than one location.

Services include: two food pantries (1,248 helped in 2009-10), emergency financial assistance, utility help (1,472), employment services (126), legal consultations (95), college scholarships, Faith in Action one-on-one volunteer caregiving (458 elderly helped by 93 volunteers), seasonal sharing projects ($202,073 distributed to 1,313 families), Family Savings Accounts, shuttle bus for senior transportation (208 seniors received 6,383 free rides), Community Auto (52 low-income workers bought donated cars at below fair market value prices), 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 2009-10, 4,861 donors and groups supported NHCO:

• 3,554 individuals
• 499 businesses
• 155 religious groups
• 165 civic groups
• 106 school groups
• 37 foundations/grants
• 19 government entities
• 11 nonprofits

Volunteers: 1,034 volunteers (including 257 youth) gave 43,206 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.