How many people does The Poverello Center serve?
Currenty, The Poverello Center provides a week's worth of groceries to each client. This provides three meals a day with snacks to nearly 1400 clients each month. Since 1986, we have served over 10,000 clients.

How do The Poverello Center clients qualify for services?
The Poverello Center provides groceries and nutritional counseling to people living with HIV/AIDS. In order to receive services, clients must comply with and complete the following procedures. The first step is to meet with a Poverello Intake Manager who will provide the necessary information for the enrollment process. A referral from a Ryan White Case Manager is needed, as well as, a letter from a primary care doctor stating that the individual seeking Poverello services is HIV positive and is in primary care. In addition, the individual will need to provide a picture ID and proof of income. Once enrolled in the system, the Poverello Center uses client numbers rather than personal names in order to maintain client confidentiality. At this point, the enrollment process is complete.

Does The Poverello Center charge for its services?
Thanks to community support, we have never required fees for our services.
Sources of our funding are from The Poverello Thrift Store, private donations and grants. While we also receive funding from corporations and foundations, The Ryan White Care Act (federal funding for HIV/AIDS services) is a major factor in our fiscal budget. In addition, several fundraising events are held throughout the year.

Is all of your food donated?
Due to the importance of food safety and our specially designed food menus, the majority of The Poverello Center food is purchased.

Do you have other locations?
The Poverello Center operates out of a 16,000 square foot facility in Wilton Manors, Florida. We serve only Broward County residents.

What is The Poverello Center tax-exempt status?
The Poverello Center is registered with the IRS as a tax exempt 501 (c) (3) organization. Contributions to The Poverello Center are tax deductable to the extent allowed by law. A copy of the official registration and financial information may be obtained from the division of Consumer Services by calling toll-frer (800-435-7352) within the state. Registration does not imply endorsement, approval, or recommendation by the state.

How can I get involved?
We're glad you asked! We are always in need of new volunteers and contributors. Call and ask to speak with our volunteer coordinator.