Assistance Program Provides New Resources to Address Minister Debt
| As you may have recently seen, the Assistance Program of The Board of Pensions of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) provides support to all eligible members enrolled in the Benefits Plan. This includes not only ministers but also all lay staff enrolled in the plan, too. The Board is committed to providing all who serve the Church with access to these opportunities to support wholeness. We’ve expanded access to meet the growing needs and diversity of the Church and introduced a new grant this year — Minister Debt Relief. If you know someone on your staff who might need assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me to set up a time to discuss eligibility guidelines and how to apply for a grant. You also may have recently seen that federal student loan borrowers may receive credit for past periods of repayment that would not have qualified for Public Service Loan Forgiveness. Ministers enrolled in the Benefits Plan may access EdAssist through PeopleJoy at no cost for coaching and support through the application process. To start, ministers must submit an EdAssist Interest Form to the Board of Pensions. Ministers and other staff serving PC(USA)-related organizations can apply through PMA: pcusa.org/loanassist. I’m also available to meet about your benefits options for next year and answer any questions. Your Employer Agreement will be available August 8, but I am happy to help you begin planning your 2023 benefits offerings before then. In peace, Rev. Dr. Douglas Portz 267-788-4962 |
