Benevolence of the Month
Interfaith Outreach Services
Our Vision
To be the primary resource for residents of Archer and Wichita Counties who are in temporary financial crisis by collaborating with faith communities, businesses, partner agencies and individuals.
Our Mission Statement
Interfaith Outreach Services provides appropriate temporary assistance to individuals and families of Archer and Wichita Counties who are threatened with homelessness, loss of utilities, food insecurity or other temporary financial emergencies in an atmosphere of compassion and respect.
History
Interfaith’s history started on April 10, 1979, when an enormous tornado devastated Wichita Falls and flattened 1/5 of the town. Thousands of people were homeless and hurting. Church World Service, an arm of the National Council of Churches, sent representatives to the city to organize a response from the religious community, and Interfaith Disaster Service (IDS) was the vehicle created to help families unable to finance the rebuilding of their homes. Congregations of all denominations and different faiths banded together to rebuild homes and lives. This was a “first” for our city, as congregations had not previously cooperated for any purpose across denominational and faith lines.