Beacon Newsletter - Summer 2011
A Message for our Executive Director
Dear Friends:
The leading news stories over the past month have been about the heat. Scorching temperatures, coupled with high
humidity, have left Florence, and the rest of the country, scrambling for cooler places. During this time Lighthouse Ministries has been visited by an increased number of residents that need help getting through this hot period. Some of them live on a fixed income and have seen an increase in their electric bills. Ms. Minnie came to Lighthouse Ministries not knowing exactly what we could do to help her with a high electric bill but asked for help anyway. You see, Minnie's husband passed away in 2010 and she no longer receives his check, cutting her income in half. Her only income is her Social Security retirement check. Most of us don't realize that when you have two persons living in a home together with both receiving Social Security retirement benefits and one passes away, the income of the household is dramatically reduced but the expenses stay the same. Minnie has been able to ward off disconnection of her utilities until now. Her bill for the month of July is $482.00; her retirement check is $600.00. Minnie owns her own home but at the age of 81, she has found herself in a situation she has never been in before. Three hours later and with guidance from our volunteer advocate, Minnie left with financial assistance with her electric bill, food, a fan, referrals to five organizations to help her stay within her budget and a smile.
The next time I am hot and irritable, I will remember her smile and all that Lighthouse Ministries was able to do to keep her utilities on. I am thankful for all the contributions we receive in order to give back to the Florence County community. I ask that you keep the Ministry in your prayers and continue to help us assist people like Minnie by donating to Lighthouse Ministries.
Cecilia