Through a combination of volunteer support and tools on our website, Renewal North helps transitioning workers—or their advocates—assess living expenses and financial needs. Our goal is to ensure fair and dignified living conditions while eliminating inequities in the allocation of assistance.

We deeply honour those who have “left all” to serve the fellowship without a home or salary, living a life of dedication and sacrifice. We understand that leaving the ministry often means stepping away without formal retirement benefits, employment history, or social security contributions, and that this transition can lead to complete dependence on family, friends, or the informal generosity of others. The lack of structure, transparency, and coordination in these support systems often results in inequities.

This fund is not intended to replace the responsibility of the ministry and fellowship to care for their own, but rather to supplement and bring fairness to situations where care has been inconsistent or insufficient.

Our Transitioning Worker Fund is an ongoing external resource—independent of the ministry—that complements any support you may already receive. Workers or their advocates can use our website or connect with volunteers to build a personal budget that identifies living expenses, current income, and any shortfalls. This information forms the basis of proposed recurring financial assistance.

We recognize that many transitioning workers—especially those who are older—may have limited experience managing personal finances. That’s why Renewal North offers guidance and tools to help document needs and adjust them as circumstances evolve.

In other cases, transitioning workers may be entering the workforce for the first time or returning after years away. These individuals often require updated job skills, additional education, and help navigating the practical aspects of modern life. Assistance from Renewal North may include one-time or recurring support for:

• Living expenses
• Transportation
• Healthcare costs
• Job retraining or educational programs
• Rental applications, resumes, or social program navigation

We are especially aware of the increased number of transitioning workers in recent years, many of whom have left the ministry in response to how certain leaders handled recent CSA/SA (Child Sexual Abuse / Sexual Abuse) allegations. These circumstances have highlighted the urgent need for a transparent, trauma-informed, and independent support system.

To learn more, please click here to review our criteria for assistance and donor eligibility.

Resources:

• Practical Resources for Life Outside the Ministry – A useful guide created by Bridges & Balm.