Keyword: «social assistance»

Based on the functional method of research and analysis of sources on the activities of the Russian Orthodox Church (hereinafter referred to as the ROC) in the social sphere on the territory of the Russian Federation and its regions, including materials from books, articles and open Internet sources, the article analyzes the ROC's approach to providing social assistance through social service, areas of work in the field of social service and the functioning of metropolises in the regions. It is concluded that the church is a reliable support of the state in the implementation of social assistance to the population, forming a significant segment of civil society and ensuring the absence of «gray areas» where the social policy of the state for one reason or another cannot reach.

The problems of organizing social assistance to elderly citizens are considered. The traditional and activating approaches to social services for the elderly are compared. The specifics of the needs and opportunities of different categories of senior citizens are indicated. The necessity of public-private partnership in the organization of social services for the population is substantiated.