by Hilary Canty
2009 has been a challenging year for many of our neighbors. Jobs are tight, local businesses have felt the squeeze, and many folks are having a hard time making ends meet.
Recently, two Orcas Island Community Foundation trustees challenged the rest of the board by offering to match donations up to $2000 to a local cause. Over Thanksgiving weekend, OICF trustees and staff members all pitched in and raised $4000 for the Orcas Food Bank. The funds will be put to use immediately. The food bank has seen record numbers of families sign up for holiday food assistance. They distributed Thanksgiving boxes to 115 families and have more than 75 signed up for Christmas already.
Many other organizations serving our neighbors in need are feeling the pinch as well, experiencing an increased demand for services and a decrease in funding. For example, OPAL Community Land Trust is working to fill the funding gap for Phase II of the Wild Rose Meadow project, providing needed jobs in a tight economy and needed homes for neighbors when the project is completed. OPAL also administers two programs on behalf of the Opportunity Council, the Community Action Agency for San Juan County: rental assistance (provides one-time assistance for a deposit to get into a rental home or an emergency payment to avoid eviction) and energy assistance (helps low-income families pay for winter heating costs). Since January 2009, Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Service client aid requests have tripled. The client aid program provides supplemental assistance to low-income clients for housing, utilities, and basic needs. All our local preschools have seen a marked increase in requests for tuition assistance from low-income families. In addition, the Montessori School is facing emergency repairs because of recent hot water tank eruption. The Animal Protection Society has seen an increase in pet relinquishments by folks leaving the island to look for work or losing their homes to foreclosure.
The list could go on and on. Our community has not been immune from the economic woes felt across the country. But what makes us stand apart is our willingness to pitch in and make a difference.This season, the impact you and your friends can make by choosing to donate time or talent to a cause that you care about, or by spending your holiday dollars locally, is a true gift to your community. It is our strong culture of contribution that makes Orcas Island a remarkable place to live. This year it is truly a saving grace.
Hilary Canty is executive director of the Orcas Island Community Foundation
