What’s it for?

The average American is only 2 paychecks away from needing emergency assitance to feed and provide shelter for their family. *

We’re seeing just that scenario right here in our city. The Salvation Army has seen the highest requests for assistance in years – an almost 40% increase over 2007. And as families are struggling to make ends meet, our programs are in even higher demand than just six months ago. This year, we’ve already seen a 15% increase over the record need in 2008 – requests for food, housing and utility assistance. And we’ll surely see the need continue to rise as Indiana unemployment has exceeded 10% and a recent homelessness report shows a 78% increase in homeless families from just a year ago!

Radiothon plays a key role in supporting the life-changing services that our neighbors are counting on. So, as you consider how you can help us this year, I encourage you to get involved with Radiothon. Our 2008 Radiothon partners has made it possible for The Salvation Army to:  

• Provide a safe shelter for over 650 women and children in the first 5 months of this year.
• Support over 200 former shelter residents making a fresh start by continuing case management, child care assistance and financial support, breaking the cycle of abuse and homelessness.
• Serve nearly 7,000 meals to those in need in the month of May, alone.
• Offer no-cost summer camp to over 500 at-risk youth this year.

Please consider how your or your company can partner with us for the event. If you are interested in sponsoring an hour or if you’d like to donate an item(s) for prize packages, please give me a call at 224-1019 or go here. Talk about a return on an investment!

* White House fast tracks stimulus 2/23/09 article msnbc.com

Coming to a mailbox near you

Postal carriers all over Central Indiana have a package from me, just for you. It’s your 2009 Radiothon sponsorship information and have we got some great ways for you to help out your neighbors in need.

I just want to let you know that your partnership is truly appreciated. We help thousands of people – men, women and children right here in our state – each year because we have amazingly generous partners who know what it means to give.

This is a big year for Radiothon – our 15th year hosting our Marathon of Giving on WIBC! We’re looking forward to working with you. Go here to check out information on how you can sponsor an hour or donate an item(s) to be used in our prize packages.

“We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.” - Winston Churchill