Charity groups feeling pinch of sluggish economy

PARKERSBURG - Local programs to help give children a memorable holiday season are also feeling the pinch of the economy, organizers said.

"We have had many requests this year and, unfortunately, I don't know if there's enough help," said Mary Rader, program coordinator with the Volunteer Action Center in Parkersburg.

Most organizations have already ended their application process and are not taking any more requests.

"I know that Old Man Rivers is no longer taking applicants as well as the churches," Rader said.

The only organization continuing to take applications is the Salvation Army in Parkersburg.

"We are the only ones still able to accept those in need," said Maj. Vernon Dolby with the organization.

While Dolby said the organization has stopped taking applications officially, it will never turn down those in need.

"Applications are basically done," he said. "If someone comes in and shows need, they will not be turned away."

Angel Trees through the Salvation Army were placed in stores on Black Friday with more names and wishes than in years past.

As of Wednesday, the Salvation Army had received 476 applications and Dolby said he is certain the number will exceed 500 in the six counties the Parkersburg program serves. Each request represents 3.5 children, which means the Salvation Army is looking to provide a Christmas for roughly 1,750 children, he said.

"Last year we helped 289 families and this year has far gone over that," Dolby said. "There is no doubt about it that the economy has taken its toll."

Those who are not taken off the Angel Trees will have their requests filled by the Salvation Army with funds from the Red Kettle campaign. This year's goal is $140,000, which Dolby said has him worried with the current economic times.

"I am worried we won't meet this year's goal," Dolby said. "We are scared to death of how to pay for everything."

The Parkersburg area Toys for Tots program will be helping children in seven counties and the organization continues to get bigger and bigger, said Sgt. Cliff Hecker with the Parkersburg office of the U.S. Marine Corps.

The organization will have events at various locations through Dec. 19 at stores and businesses with distribution on Dec. 20.

Toys for Tots works with sponsors for drop-off locations, vehicle rentals and distribution and helps give to the community through Community Action, the Children's Home Society and other charitable organizations.

While the economy has affected families, Dolby said everyone in need will receive something.

"I am worried about our income, but somehow we will get every child something," Dolby said. "How we are going to pay the bills worries me, but we will get everyone something and worry later."

The Salvation Army will distribute toys and Christmas food baskets on Dec. 19.

The Toys for Tots schedule and locations are:

Dec. 2: Kmart in south Parkersburg from 5 to 9 p.m.

Dec. 4: Kmart in Vienna from 5 to 9 p.m.

Dec. 5: Foodland in south Parkersburg from 5 to 8 p.m.

Dec. 6: Toys 'R' Us from noon to 6 p.m.; St. Marys Christmas Parade at 5:30 p.m.; Concert at Six Pence Pub on Seventh Street in Parkersburg from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m.

Dec. 7: Wal-Mart in Vienna from noon to 7 p.m.

Dec. 8: 40/8's Dinner at the American Legion from 6 to 9 p.m.

Dec. 11: Kmart in south Parkersburg and Vienna from 5 to 9 p.m.

Dec. 12: Woodcrafters from 5 to 8 p.m.; Concert at the Eagles from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m.

Dec. 13: Vienna Christmas Parade at 11 a.m.; Ed's RC Race at noon; Parkersburg Christmas Parade at 1 p.m.

Dec. 14: Wal-Mart in Vienna from noon to 7 p.m.

Dec. 15: Texas Roadhouse from 4 to 10 p.m.

Dec. 19: Mid-Ohio Valley Transit Authority on Juliana Street from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.