5Towns Community Chest brings in money for local needy families in need

The Five Towns Community Chest recently held its first annual “Holiday Fund for Families in Need” in an effort to address the economic hardships facing clients serviced by the fund-raising organization's member agencies. The fund helped raise $7,500 that were dispersed to 30 needy families in the South Shore area.

“As we re-organize and re-structure the way in which the Community Chest helps our agencies and communities, we cannot ignore the dire circumstances of those affected by the downturn in the economy,” said Eric Keslowitz, chairman of the Board for the Five Towns Community Chest, which is the oldest fundraising organization in the Five Towns.

“Our allocation committee worked diligently and compassionately to help alleviate the burden many of these clients face,” said Five Towns Community Chest president Craig Spatz. "I am proud to have been part of the process and be involved with such a caring and generous group of leadership."

The Five Towns Community Chest funds local health and human service agencies that strengthen and support families, help children and youth succeed, assist the frail and elderly, and provide vital services to special needs children and adults. Member agencies include the Five Towns Child Care Center, Five Towns Community Center, Five Towns Senior Center, Peninsula Counseling Center, and Tempo Group Inc.