Answers to Common Questions About Emergency Assistance and Donor Support

Get clear information about how Give 'Em A Break Foundation helps Arizona’s working families, how to apply, and how your donation makes a difference.

How Give 'Em A Break Foundation Works

Learn about our application process, donor benefits, and what sets our nonprofit apart in Paradise Valley, Scottsdale, and beyond.

  • Who qualifies for assistance from Give 'Em A Break Foundation?

    We help full-time employed individuals and small families facing an unexpected crisis in Arizona. Applicants must show a steady work history, not qualify for state aid, and be dealing with a real emergency like a car breakdown or urgent rent need.

  • What types of emergencies or hardships do you cover?

    We cover one-time, unexpected hardships that threaten stability, such as major car repairs, sudden housing costs, or urgent utility bills. We do not cover recurring needs, self-inflicted hardships, or predictable expenses like annual childcare.

  • How does the assistance process work?

    All help is provided through direct payments to verified businesses, such as auto repair shops or landlords. No cash is given to individuals. Each case is reviewed with a financial interview to confirm the crisis is genuine and not self-inflicted.

  • Can someone receive help more than once?

    No. Our approach is ‘one and done.’ Each eligible recipient can only receive help a single time. This ensures we serve as a bridge for those facing rare emergencies, not a recurring support service.

  • Is Give 'Em A Break Foundation a Qualified Charitable Organization for Arizona tax credit?

    Yes, we are an Arizona Qualified Charitable Organization. Donors can claim a dollar-for-dollar state tax credit when they give, making it easy to direct their taxes to help working families in our local communities.

  • Where does Give 'Em A Break Foundation provide services?

    We serve families and individuals across Arizona, with a focus on Maricopa County, Apache County, and Navajo County. Major donor support comes from Paradise Valley, Scottsdale, Anthem, and New River.

  • How do you make sure donations are used responsibly?

    Every dollar is paid directly to verified vendors with a valid EIN and invoice. We never give cash to recipients. Each hardship is carefully reviewed, and all transactions are documented for transparency and donor peace of mind.

  • What makes Give 'Em A Break different from other charities?

    We focus on helping the ‘middle working group’ who are often overlooked by traditional aid. Our direct-to-vendor system, strict eligibility, and veteran-owned leadership ensure donor funds create real, lasting impact for Arizona’s working families.

Still have questions? We're here to help — contact us today or give us a call!