NEWS

A week ago, we imagined we might get to this situation at some point; we just didn’t know how soon. But now, with word that all North Carolina restaurants were to close their dining rooms today at 5:00 p.m. — and already small businesses have been struggling with day-to-day changes in the workplace — many of our client-partners are calling in desperation:  they need critical assistance, over and above what the Ada Jenkins Center typically provides.

• Amelia S.* has been quarantined by her doctor, so she is unable to work at her housecleaning job.
• Lila R.’s childcare provider has told her she can’t work until schools are back in session. Lila has asked to change her work schedule, but her employer is balancing similar requests from other working parents.
• Abraham and Kassidy paid this month’s $1,100 rent payment – below the area average of $1,254 – but they’re anxious about April’s payment, since Abraham works in foodservice.

Today we established a Critical Assistance Fund for our neighbors, with an initial goal of $25,000. They are calling us for help with food, and childcare, and housing expenses – assistance they haven’t been able to access from other local agencies.

Donations can be made:

• Online:  http://bit.ly/CriticalAssistance
• or with a check payable to Ada Jenkins Center; PO Box 1842; Davidson, NC  28036 – “Critical Assistance Fund” in the memo line