Too Big To Fail - Too Small To Save
By Thomas D. Segel
May 29, 2009
Page 2 of 3
While large corporations deemed too big to fail are squandering their way through your tax dollars and still facing bankruptcy, what is happening with the working poor, the jobless and the homeless? A look at this small corner of the United States might tell you. From the political standpoint, they seem to be too small to save. But, there is no economic group more vulnerable during these harsh times...and no group less likely to be protected by the government.
This is only antidotal evidence, but with one out of ten people in Deep South Texas now unemployed, those organizations that historically aid disadvantaged individuals and families are the only hands of assistance being offered. However, they too are in need and are being tested to the fullest.
Food pantries run by churches are being called upon to provide more and more assistance. Though congregations contribute to the food supply on a regular basis, the need still is greater than the supply.
The Salvation Army, serving both Cameron and Willacy Counties was asked to assist 58 families and 298 individuals during the past month. Aid requests covered a wide variety of services from rent assistance, help with utilities, food, clothing and spiritual needs.
Five months into the year the local Army's expenditures have already exceeded its contributions by almost $23,000. Its total contributions, compared to the same date last year are down $143,000. The only bright spot for those who provide the Army's services is its Thrift Store operation, which in a down economy has increased to more than $1,000 a day in sales.
A more telling picture of how disadvantaged people are reaching out for help can be seen when viewing the operation of Loaves and Fishes, the Harlingen service center operated by the city's Ministerial Alliance.
During the past four months 35,850 meals were served. So many were in line to be fed that periodically some would need to wait outside until table space became available.
In its Training Center 225 people sought computer, money management and GED
Classes. This was an increase of 17.4% over the same month in 2008. There has been a 35.2% increase in new clients seeking job placement. A total of 1,710 people have requested work related assistance during 2009, with a total of 58 jobs found.
There have been 3299 bed nights provided in the homeless shelter this year. The number of men seeking shelter increased by 7.5%. Women needing shelter increased by 44.4% and children being sheltered saw an increase of 269.8%.
Those needing help with rent grew by 21%, utilities 160.9%, and food bags by 354%. The disabled veterans program saw a jump from 201 people in all of 2008 to 913 veterans to date in 2009, a 354% increase.
In all services there has been an increase in demand of mammoth proportions when compared to previous years. Though the figures are large, they still do not tell the entire story, for on a total income budget of just under $907,000, Loaves and Fishes ends each year with only about $35,000 left in its bank account. This means that when any of the services provided reaches its budgetary limit, nothing else can be provided, even though many people may still be seeking assistance.
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