Community foundation aims to raise $30,000 for Spirit of Hope
The Brainerd Lakes Community Foundation announced Monday the kickoff of a special Spirit of Hope fundraising campaign that aims to raise $30,000 by the end of the year.
A recent increased need for emergency assistance has reduced the local Spirit of Hope Fund to about $4,000. The foundation distributes financial assistance to local families and individuals facing a crisis through the local Salvation Army and Bridges of Hope.
The Salvation Army and Bridges of Hope identify needs, accept applications and pass along the emergency funds.
An economic downtown sprung by the rising rate of foreclosures and fuel prices has pushed more families to the point of a crisis this holiday season. They are struggling to pay for their homes, prescriptions and other necessities, said Mike Burton, coordinator of the Brainerd Lakes Area Community Foundation.
"We really need the community's help right now to meet a critical need," Burton said. "People in our community are suffering and need help to get back on their feet."
The Spirit of Hope Fund provides funds for a range of needs, including medical emergencies or prescription medications, transportation, gas or car repairs, food and clothing, housing and lodging and utilities.
The Brainerd Lakes Area Community Foundation, an affiliate foundation of the Central Minnesota Community Foundation, seeks to link donors with the needs of the local community, and beyond, by creating permanent endowments.
Donations for the Spirit of Hope Fund may be made online at CommunityGiving.org.
Checks made payable to the Brainerd Lakes Area Community Foundation (Spirit of Hope) can be mailed to Brainerd Lakes Area Community Foundation, P.O. Box 855, Nisswa, MN 56468.