The Patterson Foundation to Match up to $500,000 in New or Increased Season of Sharing Donations

Season of Sharing is a powerful tradition in our region - one that enables anyone to be a philanthropist. From the fourth grader who donates her lunch money to the church group that donates the proceeds of its fundraiser, Season of Sharing mobilizes our region to care for our friends and neighbors on the verge of homelessness.

This year, our community has set a goal to raise $1 million, directly benefiting those in need. With the success of this community goal and our $500,000 matching challenge for new or increased donations, there is the potential to raise $1.5 million.

Why are we committed and invested in Season of Sharing?

We value helping to relieve the impact of crisis. We value collaboration and continue to be inspired by our region's media partners coming together through this campaign for the greater good of the community. We value leveraging resources for impact through matching challenges.

One only needs to read this list from the Herald-Tribune's editorial to realize there is a need:

- So far in every month of 2011, the number of people in Manatee and Sarasota counties seeking food, shelter, medical care and other aid — because they were homeless or on the verge of homelessness — has been higher than it was in 2010.

- More families and women — including longtime residents — are seeking help, according to local agencies

- Case workers are reporting that many families, who once enjoyed the benefits of employment and could be helped by one-time emergency assistance, now experience profound poverty due to long-term joblessness.

To donate:

Donations to the Season of Sharing fund may be made by check or credit card.

Make checks payable to the Community Foundation of Sarasota County, P.O. Box 49587, Sarasota FL 34230-6587.

Donations are also accepted online at www.cfsarasota.org.