The Village Improvement Association of Doylestown (VIA) reports that donors have contributed over $11,600 to its Neighbors in Need Now campaign launched on March 1.
Since then, conditions certainly have not improved for those already in need.
COVID is still with us. War is raging in Europe, aggravating already-high fuel prices. At the launch of Neighbors in Need NOW, a gallon of heating oil (150 gallon minimum) was $3.15, but as of March 24, it was up to $4.99 a gallon. And gasoline, essential for transportation to and from work, shopping, etc., is topping out at almost $6 a gallon in some areas. Continued inflation, labor shortages, supply chain issues, elimination of the eviction moratorium and reduced federal monetary support, makes it clear why some neighbors so desperately need help.
“In keeping with our mission, for the past 127 years the VIA has worked to improve the health and welfare of Bucks County residents,” explained VIA President Barbara Ann Price. “When the VIA first started, members of its charity/welfare committee personally visited needy families providing food and supplies, shoes and clothing, coal for heating and often much more. We no longer directly vet requests for aid, but instead work with local nonprofits providing added funding.