Dollar-Help Marks 25th Anniversary
St. Louis, MO (September 20, 2007) - For families in need, the struggle to pay heating bills can mean the difference between staying warm and paying for groceries or prescriptions. Dollar-Help, Inc. was created a quarter of a century ago by Sister Pat Kelley to provide energy assistance for the less fortunate in the region. In the past 25 years, Dollar-Help has given approximately $14.5 million in grants to help more than 35,000 families and individuals in St. Louis City, County and eight surrounding counties pay their utility bills-including natural gas, electric, propane and fuel oil. During the past fiscal year ending June 30, Dollar-Help raised more than $1 million in one year, for the first time in its history.
"The Greater St. Louis community has always been generous in helping those in need," said Dennis Kelley, president of Dollar-Help. "Now, as we mark our 25th anniversary, we are pleased to announce returning and new sponsors for our fundraising efforts so that we can continue to grow and make an impact in our community."
Kelley said The St. Louis Rams and Dierbergs Markets are again teaming up with Dollar-Help to challenge the St. Louis area to "check a red box" on their natural gas bills to donate $1, $2, or $5 per month for the needy.
Douglas H. Yaeger, chairman, president and CEO of The Laclede Group, parent company to Laclede Gas, praised the organization for its good work and, as it has since inception, pledged the company's continued support by underwriting its administrative costs to ensure that all money collected goes directly to those in need. Laclede Gas will also continue to match donations from the public by contributing up to $54,000 per year to Dollar-Help.
Rams linebacker Will Witherspoon will participate in Warmthgiving Weekend, a series of events to encourage the children of St. Louis to host hot chocolate stands (similar to summer lemonade stands) to collect money for Dollar-Help. Returning sponsor, Dierbergs Markets, will sponsor hot chocolate stands at several of its stores and offer prizes for children who run their own stands. Dierbergs will also help promote the event through its newsletters, ads and Web site.
Governor Matt Blunt, County Executive Charlie Dooley, a representative from the Mayor's office and Witherspoon will attend a 25th anniversary event on September 25 in support of Dollar-Help's work.