Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Practice Exam

In a situation where a social worker at an emergency shelter cannot use agency funds for necessary items, what should they do first?

1. Organize a fundraiser for the shelter

2. Purchase items with personal funds

3. Call community stores for donations of needed items

4. Advocate for an increase in the shelter's budget

The correct answer is: Call community stores for donations of needed items

In situations where a social worker cannot access agency funds for necessary items, the most immediate and practical course of action is to seek donations from community stores. This approach allows the social worker to address the immediate needs of the clients without using personal funds or waiting for potential changes in the agency's financial structure. By calling community stores for donations, the social worker can leverage local resources and build relationships with businesses in the community, which may lead to ongoing support for the shelter. This strategy also aligns with the principles of community engagement and collaboration, fostering a sense of shared responsibility for addressing the needs of vulnerable populations. While organizing a fundraiser or advocating for an increase in the shelter's budget are valuable long-term strategies, they often require more time and effort before tangible resources are available. Likewise, using personal funds can lead to ethical concerns and burnout for the social worker, as it places the financial burden on them rather than utilizing community resources and support systems effectively.