Crisis Fund Needs Donors

The Community Services Council will be searching for at least $10,000 in donations of cash and services to start the Short-Term Crisis Loan Fund.

The fund received $10,000 in August from an anonymous foundation. But that gift requires that the council match it with donations from the community, said Commissioner Jeff Griffith.

Griffith suggested members of the council seek in-kind donations for day care, auto repairs, food and other goods or services people need in emergencies.

The fund is designed for working people who find themselves in a short-term financial crisis but qualify for no public assistance. The loans can be for up to $250, and can be paid back without interest over one year.

The council, formerly called the Human Services Council, changed its name this fall to incorporate as independently of county government. Its members include representatives from human service agencies, government, education, business and clergy.