The Patterson Foundation has provided a $100,000 gift to help families and individuals on the verge of homelessness in Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte, and DeSoto countries, further strengthening Season of Sharing campaign. From Jan 31, 2018, The Patterson Foundation will contribute additional $100,000 gifts each time the community raises $500,000 for Season of Sharing.
Since 2000, Season of Sharing has provided more than $17 million to help families throughout the region cover expenses like medical bills, child care, rent and other essential payments that could jeopardize their ability to remain in their homes. More than 18,000 local families have been helped by the annual campaign, which was created by the Herald-Tribune Media Group in partnership with the Community Foundation of Sarasota County. The majority of families that receive Season of Sharing funds are able to achieve long-term housing stability, with only 15 percent of families requiring additional assistance the following year.
According to the President and CEO of The Patterson Foundation Debra Jacobs, “The difference between living with a roof over your head versus living on the streets can be as little as one unexpected hospital bill or another unforeseen expense for many families in our region. Season of Sharing offers a way for everyone from citizen philanthropists to established donors to help people on the verge of homelessness. By tying these $100,000 gifts to community fundraising milestones, The Patterson Foundation hopes to inspire more and more people to give to the endeavor.”
The Patterson Foundation has supported Season of Sharing since 2010, contributing $3.6 million total to it prior to the current campaign’s launch. More than 50 organizations donate their time and resources each year to manage and distribute Season of Sharing funds effectively, eliminating operating expenses and ensuring that 100 percent of the campaign’s funds go directly to serve those in need.