FISH Fund

Founded in 1981 by the Interfaith Council of Churches, the FISH Fund began as a response to a shared challenge: local church staff were overwhelmed by growing requests for help and limited resources. Rather than working in isolation, faith communities came together with a vision—to pool their resources and trust trained professionals to assess needs and provide support with care and integrity.

Since then, the FISH Fund has allowed VAC to serve thousands of neighbors across Columbia and Boone County. It ensures that when someone comes to a church for help, there's a trusted, effective pathway to the support they need.

When someone in your congregation or community seeks help, referring them to VAC means they’ll be met with dignity, empathy, and the expertise of trained social service professionals. As funds allow, the FISH Fund may cover:

• Co-pays for health appointments

• Dental care

• Gas vouchers

• Missouri birth certificates

• Minor car repairs

• Prescription co-pays

• Employment uniforms

• State IDs

Here’s how your support makes an impact:

• Maximizes stewardship – Ensures charitable giving is used effectively and fairly.
• Leverages expertise – Connects individuals with experienced social workers.
• Reduces barriers – Offers multiple services through one trusted agency.
• Improves efficiency – Prevents duplication of efforts and expands access.
• Builds trust – Strengthens accountability and transparency in support delivery.
• Provides holistic care – Goes beyond the crisis to offer meaningful referrals and follow-up.