Serving on the front line of the Red Tide economic and environmental disaster in Sarasota County, JFCS of the Suncoast is stepping up efforts and asking for donations to a special emergency fund. Donations will go directly to outreach services through JFCS’ Building Strong Families Program, which serves people who rely on the service industries for employment and have found themselves with fewer working hours or employment opportunities due to red tide’s impact. Since the beginning of July, JFCS has identified an increase of approximately 40 percent in homeless prevention requests, that bridge between homelessness and living in a residence of one’s own. JFCS clients are generally underemployed and working more than one job. For many, their primary source of income is derived from the hospitality industry, such as restaurants and hotels. Donations can be made by contacting Sherry Gluchov at 941.366.2224, ext. 141 or sgluchov@jfcs-cares.org.

JFCS of the Suncoast