Santa Ana : Offer of Work Tied to Pledges of Funds

In an effort to dramatize the impact of federal budget cuts on local communities, Orange County Alliance for Survival members have volunteered to work for a variety of local social service agencies in return for fund pledges.

During “Meet Human Needs Volunteer Week,” May 10-17, volunteers will collect pledges based on an hourly rate for their work at such organizations as the Orange County Urban League and local food distribution centers.

The purpose of the project is to demonstrate the benefits of those organizations most likely to be affected by budget cuts at the federal level, particularly by the impending loss of federal revenue-sharing funds that for several years have financed a variety of social programs in Orange County.

“In addition to the immediate benefits to the community, this will also provide an excellent opportunity for dialogue on the issues raised in discussion of federal budget priorities,” said Elizabeth Crawford, staff organizer with the Alliance.

Alliance members and anyone else who wishes to participate will work an average of eight hours each through the week. Pledge sheets are available through the alliance office in Santa Ana.

The weeklong project will culminate in a march through downtown Santa Ana on May 18, to include both volunteers and homeless, disabled people and other “victims of the budget cuts,” Crawford said.