Nonprofits Expanding

WETM Channel 18 reported that with the continuing down turn of the economy non-profit organizations are growing to fit neighbor's needs.CEO Natasha Thompson of the Food Bank in the Southern Tier, says, "The reality is that about fifteen percent of the population in the Southern Tier are living at or below the federal poverty level, which is $21,200 before taxes."

Thompson also says despite the economic slump, her charity will be expanding thanks to the generosity of the community.

She says, "Our growth over the past ten years is us just getting a lot better at supply the need that already exists."

With an increase of members during recent years, non-profit organizations have been applying for more funds to make sure they have enough to provide those who are less unfortunate.

Bridget Steed of the Catholic Charities in Elmira says they got help from the federal level.

Steed says, "Most recently the stimulus funds that were distributed we were fortunate to apply for and receive. Plus additionally other applications we applied for early on."

The number of neighbors needing services has increased every year.

This means charity directors need to know how many people they need to accommodate.
Steed also says, "We look at what the community need is. We project that out towards the future and identify and figure out what we can apply for.”

Both Steed and Thompson say their organizations can't run without local support.
Catholic Charities have already made plans to expand housing options for neighbors in need.

The food bank of the Southern Tier is planning on expanding into the old Seneca Beverage building.