Georgetown, Del., Nov. 13, 2007: Tens of thousands of dollars are going into the community to feed the hungry, clothe the needy and support senior citizens, a result of the annual assistance provided by the Sussex County Council.

County Council on Tuesday, Nov. 13, approved the disbursement of more than $144,000 in human service grants to nearly 100 non-profit organizations. Those include food banks, shelters, senior centers, youth clubs and support groups.

The grants are an annual program administered by the County government. In Fiscal 2007, Sussex County awarded $105,150 to organizations. This fiscal year, the County budget includes a bump of approximately $46,000 over last fiscal year – a 42 percent increase.

Finance Director Susan M. Webb said this year’s increase in the human service funding was aimed specifically at area senior centers and programs, all of which will receive a minimum $5,000 grant from the County in Fiscal 2008.

“Everyone knows that Sussex County’s population, especially among senior citizens, is growing. That adds demand,” Ms. Webb said. “With limited budgets, smaller non-profits might feel the strain of that demand. The County believes these grants and the increases in funding will help these worthy programs and services better meet the needs of our population.”