FREDERICK COUNTY, MD - Many non-profit groups in Frederick County, Md. are having a hard time staying afloat during a bad economy and after funding cuts. You can help them survive in the comfort of your own home.
Life wasn't always easy for Tommy Skaggs.
"I showed up at the Frederick Rescue Mission in 1998, and that was after being homeless and addicted to heroin and cocaine for almost 15 years," Skaggs said.
Skaggs has turned his life around at the Mission. It's one of 26 non-profit groups selected for the Frederick 48.
People can go online Thursday and Friday and donate to a non-profit of their choice.
"The reality is there's quite a few people out there who are facing all kinds of hardships, and it's a tough economy. We all know it's a tough economy, but not all of us know how hard it is just for the bottom to drop out unexpectedly," said Jonathan Switzer, organizer of the Frederick 48.
The non-profits selected help at-risk kids, the homeless, and those overwhelmed with medical bills.
Pastor Arnold Farlow has seen the need for help go up over the last few years.
"We've served a little over 90,000 meals. We expect to serve around 130,000. Last year, we served 120,000. Since 2008, it seems to be going up about 20,000 a year," said Farlow, executive director of the Frederick Rescue Mission.
Bread isn't the only thing getting served up at the Mission. Those who've gone through recovery in the building say the non-profit has helped feed both their physical and emotional hunger.
"I've had my life changed by the work of the Frederick Rescue Mission, as well as some other non-profits that are participating in the Frederick 48," Skaggs said.
Habitat for Humanity of Frederick County is another non-profit taking part in the Frederick 48.
"People giving to Habitat for Humanity will help us build homes, communities, and hope in our neighborhoods. It helps families that have young children to up their grade levels in school," said Ron Cramer, executive director of Habitat for Humanity of Frederick County.
$76,000 in matching funds has already been raised. That's something those who run the non-profits say is crucial to help them continue helping those who need it the most.
To donate, go to www.frederick48.org.
