LANCASTER, S.C. — The Give Local fundraising campaign has returned to Lancaster and Chester counties for another year, supporting those providing life-changing care.
Among the more than 80 organizations participating is HOPE in Lancaster, a nonprofit that has been working to make a difference in the area since the 1980s through food and emergency services.
Those resources are even more critical, HOPE leaders say, as the cost of living continues to rise but minimum wage remains low.
“The cost of rent has gone up exponentially," HOPE Interim Director Susan Dolphin said, adding, "10 years ago, the average rent was $500. Now, it's $900 and that's, you know, almost double in some cases, depending on where in Lancaster that you live.”
While many nonprofits like HOPE received additional funding during the pandemic, organizers say that money is running dry.
"We don't have the funds to address the increased need at the volume of money that each client needs," Dolphin said. "We're thankful for every single penny, dime and dollar that we get, but the need is great and, unfortunately, we need more to meet that need.”
The Arras Foundation joined other partners to host an in-person giving celebration Nov. 15 from 11-2 p.m. for National Philanthropy Day at the Crescent, which is located at 601 N. Main Street in Lancaster.
“All of our nonprofits are providing vital services to the community. So, it is important to support them," Hannah Saeger Karnei with the Arras Foundation said. "Over the last seven previous years, we have raised nearly $1.7 million and that is through both individual donations and matching funds.”
Organizers said they raised about $466,186 during the Give Local Day "24-hour blitz."
Those interested can continue to donate until Nov. 28 at GiveLocalSC.org.
Contact Kayland Hagwood at khagwood@wcnc.com and follow her on Facebook, X and Instagram.
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