Out here on the coast we've been hit hard by the current problems with the economy. Horry County saw fit to cut funding this year to almost all social service agencies in the county. Many of the agencies provide services to residents and visitors that are tax payer provided in other areas of the country. The agencies depended on the small amount of county funding (about $25,000 a year) to show grant agencies they have local support. So, not only do they lose that money, they are out of luck with some grant agencies.
The service agencies are also seeing a decline in contributions from donors. Some large donors are cutting their contributions in half. What does this mean?
Our shelters are facing severe shortfalls in revenues and may have to close doors or reduce services to families in need. CASA (Citizens Against Spousal Abuse) the local shelter for abused families is facing a financial crisis. In the past year they have closed counceling offices, reduced staff and cut services.
The folks in the Active Rain community can help.
Many local civic organizations are sponsoring events to help local service agencies. I belong to Zonta Club of Myrtle Beach. We are part of Zonta International, a service organization of professionals dedicated to improving the status of women worldwide. Our local projects include helping CASA with our money, time and talents. Right now they really need our money.
Zonta Club of Myrtle Beach is selling tickets to the Pelican's Ballgame on August 2, 2009. Tickets are very inexpensive and at the game we will have places to donate food, money and participate in a silent auction.
So come on out to the ballgame and help a family in crisis.
Joanne Patterson, Director of CASA and R. Walker of Zonta Club of Myrtle Beach
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