ICAN help

To the editor:

The mission of ICAN (Interfaith Caring Neighbors) is to facilitate and coordinate the training and volunteer efforts for providing informal support services to senior citizens in the Lawrence area. This is done to help seniors maintain their independence, dignity and quality of life. Referrals are received from family members, neighbors, congregations and social service agencies.

The requests for assistance this year have doubled when compared to last year. This fact is directly attributable to the dwindling of more formal resources that were available. We expect this trend to continue and escalate as the aging population grows.

In July 2003, ICAN sent its annual appeal letter seeking contributions and support from community members (individuals and businesses) of Lawrence and Douglas County. To date, the financial support from this year’s mailing is less than 20 percent of that received in the past. (These contributions have equaled 20 to 25 percent of ICAN’s total budget in past years.)

To all of the people and organizations who have supported our efforts with their time, talent and financial contributions we extend a hearty “thank you.” But there is so much more to be done! This letter is a plea to the community, on two levels, to support this organization and the seniors of this community. First, we need your financial contributions to continue the efforts. Secondly, we are seeking information regarding opportunities for grants or long-term financial support to sustain ICAN’s operations. For more information, call the ICAN office at 749-2005.

Elaine M. Skoch,

Lawrence