Bad economic times call for good neighbors

By The Home News

Thursday, Nov. 13, 2008 | midnight

It’s more important than ever that Southern Nevadans step up and help the less fortunate in our community.

The number of people needing assistance is growing as the national and local economies continue to struggle.

The state reported Oct. 20 the unemployment rate statewide increased from 7.1 percent in August to 7.3 percent in September — the highest since 1985 — and a quick rebound to boom times locally does not appear to be in the cards.

These newly unemployed Nevadans could be your neighbors, or your child’s classmate and her family.

Whether you know them, know of them or they are strangers, these are fellow Nevadans now enduring hardships. They may be worried about paying for basic living expenses like food and shelter. Many are wondering if they can pay the doctor if they or their children become sick.

Southern Nevadans who are still employed should contact the charity of their choice and give what they can in cash, or donate items that can be sold in charity thrift stores.

It’s easy to donate. Goodwill of Southern Nevada, for instance, has placed seven trailers at Alberstons grocery stores to encourage donations by making the drop sites more convenient during the holidays. The goal is to have 30 portable sites at the grocery stores soon.

Another charity worth helping is the Salvation Army. Because of a drop in donations and sales from its thrift stores, it’s looking at reducing the number of red kettles outside local stores this holiday season — just as the number of Nevadans needing the Salvation Army’s help is increasing.

The organization is asking for corporate sponsors for its signature red kettles — which cost $95 a day to operate — and we hope some will step up to help.