Assistance (a township service)

Township Assistance (or “Poor Relief”) is a program that provides temporary help to people in need.

The most common awards pay for utilities when shut-off is imminent, and for shelter when an eviction is imminent. In some instances, food, medicine, and burials are eligible.

You must be a Harris Township resident to receive help.

To request assistance, please contact the township by phone 574.272.2371 or email the township.
Please be prepared to provide your primary address, recent household income, and the nature of the need.

A person will contact you and help you through the application process. In most cases, you will hear back the same or next business day*. If you do not, please reach out again. There have been instances where, for example, an email wound up in a SPAM folder.

The township also works with churches and non-profit organizations to help those in need.

*Refer to the official list of holidays maintained by St. Joseph County. The county follows that schedule.