To the editor:
The fine weather this past weekend gave hope to many that Spring might be just around the corner. Unfortunately, a delightful shift in the weather isn't enough to change the plight of many families on the North Shore.
Obvious factors such as continuing unemployment and state and federal cutbacks on existing programs have created crises for many of our friends, neighbors and family.
More than ever before, the North Shore United Way is being asked to help agencies fund critical programs that provide these desperately needed services such as child care and basic needs. But we are still running behind, almost $100,000 behind.
Some very thoughtful donors have banded together to create a matching pool that we are calling "Match Madness," a take-off on the NCAA basketball tournament. Your contribution of any size given in the month of March will be matched, doubling your gift.
Some great prizes have been donated as well such as a signed Ray Allen jersey, and tickets to a Celtics-Cavaliers game all will be given away at the end of the month.
Please consider making a gift at this very critical time, helping our own North Shore community weather the stresses of these difficult times. To donate or learn more go to www.nsuw.org, or call the office at 978-922-3966.
Help make Spring truly a time of hope and renewal for those in need.
JOHN SUTYAK
Chairman,
North Shore United Way NSUW
