Why informing your employee about assistance programs is critical

Having a happy employee that feels valued ensures longevity of their loyalty to you and your company. Some employee turnover is caused by the feeling of being just another number. Life happens, and unforeseen circumstances may arise. How you help your employee get through a crisis by having programs in place to assist in the time of need and be an extra hand of comfort to hold, will and can make the world of difference.

Currently, how do your employees know you are there for them in case of a tragic death in the family or a natural disaster? Is your company failing to share this information because you are afraid that and employee might take advantage of your system or your funds are limited? Did you know that IRS publications require that “[t]he organization informs all employees of the corporation that disaster relief and emergency hardship funds are available, including the criteria for application and selection”?

To better serve your employees and communicate the benefits available you should:

1. Have the website URL of where to apply for a hardship grant in your employee handbook.
   1. Specify the types of hardships covered.
   2. Include the guidelines of grant qualification needs.
2. Display the website URL of where to apply for a hardship grant in an employee common area.
   1. Specify the types of hardships covered.
   2. Include the guidelines of grant qualification
3. Train management to guide staff to this resource when discussions of employee hardship arise.
4. Having your employees know how to apply is just a small part of the process.