Good Neighbors Fund

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• Contribute to the Good Neighbors Fund online

Previous Good Neighbors Fund stories

• Donations to fund surpass expectations
• Good grocer is given gratitude
• Good neighbor a treasured friend
• Immigrant battles to stay afloat
• The cost of keeping a family together

Total amount raised

Despite a fundraising period that was six days shorter than usual, The Roanoke Times' Good Neighbors Fund drive for 2008 has topped last year's total of $180,964. As of Jan. 15, the total amount of money donated to Roanoke Area Ministries' Emergency Financial Assistance Program was $191,300.

"It's unbelievable," said Debbie Denison, executive director of RAM. "It's the economy," she explained. "People realize that the poor could be them."

Usually, the agency divides the fund equally among the 12 months of the year. But because high heating bills cause so much need during winter, Denison said that RAM will adjust its budget to have more money available to help during the colder months.

Although response to the agency's annual wish list was good, Denison said the day shelter could still use more gently worn vinyl chairs.

"We got some," she said, "but not as many as we needed."

Denison said she and the staff at RAM are grateful for the generosity of the readers of The Roanoke Times.

"I'd like to thank each and every one of the contributors," she said, "but the clients are the ones who are really thanking them."

Debbie Meade, president and publisher of The Roanoke Times and roanoke.com, also appreciates those who donated.

"Our newspaper has carried numerous stories recently about layoffs, unemployment and bankruptcies," she said. "For many people in our community, these are tough times, but fortunately, there are caring neighbors who are willing to give them a helping hand. On behalf of all of us at The Roanoke Times, I want to thank everyone who has contributed to the Good Neighbors Fund this year.

"Because of your generosity, RAM will be able to provide emergency assistance to hundreds of people in need."

Donors through Jan. 15 include:

Patricia J. Powell in honor of Jeffrey Martin

The Gem Gallery staff in honor of their wonderful friends

Cecil L. and Virginia K. Basham in memory of parents, Jesse L. and Elizabeth Updike Basham

Ron and Janice Sink in memory of Edgar Sink and in honor of Nellie Sink

Rodger and Betty Jo Mabe in memory of Ron Sutphin

Grand Piano and Furniture Company

Mr. and Mrs. Jerome S. Kalafut

Roanoke Valley Chapter of Family Childcare Providers