Aug. 23--The American Red Cross is about a third of the way toward achieving its 2009 Major Gifts campaign and hopes to get a big push this month before the annual United Way Campaign begins.

The Morgan-Lawrence County Chapter's goal is $50,000, and it has raised $15,000 to date.

More in need

Debbie Heard, chapter executive director, said the organization, like most nonprofits this year, has struggled with lower contributions in a down economy while also seeing demand for services rise.

During its last fiscal year, Red Cross provided a record $44,000 worth of emergency assistance to local residents, she said.

Most of that went to helping victims of 124 residential fires.

The money also helped six victims of tornado and wind damage.

Heard said the bad economy led to some of the disasters, such as the October fire caused by a candle, killing a Decatur 3-year-old because the parent couldn't afford to buy utilities.

The Major Gifts Campaign seeks single donations of $1,000 or more.

Donors can spread payments monthly or quarterly.

What it pays for

In the past, the money has helped the local chapter pay for capital needs, such as a new Point of Distribution vehicle in 2007.

The POD van brings food, water, blankets and other items to support local disaster sites.

This year, all donations will go to supporting local victims of fires and other disasters, Heard said.

Anyone wishing to donate can go to www.morglawred cross.org or mail a check, marked Major Gifts on the memo line, to P.O Box 297, Decatur, AL 35602.

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