New fund aims to meet rising needs

Most people are familiar with The Salvation Army's holiday bell-ringing fundraising. However, the need for assistance in Rochester is growing to such levels that the current fundraising programs are no longer sufficient.

The "Meet the Need Fund" was created to support the greatest needs in three major categories:

•The poor who need prescription medication, clothing, rental assistance and case management.

•The hungry families that need food to make it through the month.

•Homeless persons that need assistance to get on the path to self-sufficiency.

Rochester Commanding Officer, Major Charles Deitrick said, "Every day more and more people come through our doors. They all have one thing in common - poverty! The Meet the Need Fund is important in the fight against a growing crisis of underprivileged."

The major source of funding will come from donations prompted by a letter campaign to previous donors.

For information, or to donate, contact The Salvation Army - Rochester Area Services at 585-987-9500. Or send your tax-deductible gift directly to: The Salvation Army, P.O. Box 41210, Rochester, NY 14604.

© July 1, 2007 - Westside News Inc.