Many people on Whidbey are in need | LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Published 7:32 am Friday, June 18, 2010

To the editor:

I am the executive director of Helping Hand of South Whidbey. We provide financial assistance to people having trouble paying their rent, their Puget Sound Energy bill, their propane or oil bill, or their water bill.

Until recently we were also able to assist with other unexpected emergencies, but due to the increased demand for assistance and lower donations we have begun to focus exclusively on the basic needs of life. The Opportunity Council is out of energy assistance until fall, so we are the only potential source of assistance for those facing the shut- off of their power.

I am happy that Whidbey Camano Land Trust has been able to raise almost $2 million, but I wonder if that money has come out of the money people would normally have donated to “people-centered” causes.

Two million dollars would purchase a lot of food, build a homeless shelter and have plenty left over to cover rent and utility bills for hundreds of our neighbors here on South Whidbey.

For those of us in the people-centered nonprofit arena, it is not easy right now. We are trying to service our clients, plus trying to figure out how to raise money without spending the precious few dollars we do have in our checking accounts.

Saving land is a noble cause, but the higher calling is loving and caring for our neighbors and making sure that they have shelter, food and a way of preparing that food.

Thanks for considering my thoughts.

Rosemary Martin

Clinton