The Board of Selectmen is once again issuing a request for assistance as the fund balance continues to shrink due to on going requests for help.
The country’s economic malaise continues to make itself felt in Lyme. Social Services Director Kathy Tisdale reports appeals for assistance with necessities such as home heating oil, utility bills and food are on the rise as the winter season approaches and demand is expected to be as great or greater than last year.
Traditionally, these requests are dealt with in a number of ways including a discretionary account at her disposal which is funded solely by private donations. It’s primary function is to provide help for people who for whatever reason cannot qualify for the usual programs for relief. The Town of Lyme does not allocate any taxpayer dollars to a budget line item for this purpose, relying exclusively on the periodic generosity of individuals and civic organizations to meet what heretofore had been a limited demand for public assistance.
Unrelenting pressure on her limited funds continues to jeopardize her ability to meet current requests for assistance in Lyme. The Board of Selectmen wishes to once again take this opportunity to make our community aware of this situation and encourage those who are so inclined to help replenish the account.
Donations may be sent to the attention of Kathy Tisdale, Social Services Director, Lyme Town Hall, 480 Hamburg Road, Lyme, CT 06371. Checks should be made payable to the Emergency Assistance Fund.
Thanks to all for your time and consideration.
Respectfully,
The Lyme Board of Selectmen