Laid-off workers get anonymous gift

By Timothy Pratt

Thursday, Nov. 1, 2001 | 8:43 a.m.

Catholic Charities has received a $100,000 anonymous donation to help workers laid off since the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, an official announced Wednesday.

"This money will help people who are about to be evicted or have their utilities cut off as a result of losing their jobs," said Clintine Coleman, social services director for the agency.

The charity began evaluating applicants for the assistance Monday and will be receiving applications until the funds run out.

To qualify, the unemployed have to present a letter from their former employer that shows they were laid off after the attacks and demonstrate that they are having problems paying their bills as a result.

The charity will then contact the landlords or utility company on behalf of the laid-off workers and help work out a payment plan. The agency will also develop a plan for qualified applicants to find new jobs, including referrals to employment fairs and services.

"Helping them find a new job is an important part of administering the aid, in order to avoid these families being on the streets a month later," Coleman said.

About 150 families will benefit from the help, Coleman said.

About 350 people who have been laid off and need help with food, rent or utilities have been visiting the charity every week since Sept. 24.

"Many of the people who are coming to us for help are kind of in shock, since they've never been laid off before and are afraid of losing everything."