By Staff
NILES - The United Way of Greater Niles announced that a Special Grant has been awarded to the Salvation Army in Niles to help replenish their Utility Assistance Fund.
The volunteer board of directors recently approved a $1,000 special grant for the Salvation Army's fund that provides emergency assistance for those threatened with utility shut-offs in the Niles area. The fund ran out of money in November and will not be replenished until mid January.
Executive director John Stauffer said “we are pleased to be able to offer support for the neediest among us at this time of year. It also shows how a strong local United Way in the community can make a difference. Our fundraising campaign is continuing and we are asking everyone in the community to make a pledge. No amount is too small since gifts are combined with those from others and have a substantial local impact.”
Donations may be sent by mail to P.O. 375, Niles, MI or made online with major credit cards at www.unitedewayniles.com. The fund raising goal this year is $280,000. Donations are used to help fund 17 local non-profit agencies that provide services in the greater Niles area including:
American Red Cross, Berrien Co. Chapter
Child &Family Services/The Link Crisis Intervention
Berrien County Cancer Service
Berrien County Council for Children
Child &Family Services/West Mich. Guardianship
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Berrien &Cass
Niles Association for Exceptional Citizens
Samaritan Counseling Center of SW Michigan
Boy Scouts of America, LaSalle Council
Milestones of Southwest Michigan
Girl Scouts of America, Singings Sands Council
Multicultural Involvement Council, “Fresh Start” Program
Niles-Buchanan YMCA
Northside Childcare Center
Safe Shelter
Salvation Army, Niles Corps
Volunteer Center