Recently, local nonprofit organization Jack’s Helping Hand received $10,000 in generous donations from two very different sources. Both Chevron and the Florence McFarlane Martin Memorial Foundation donated $5,000 each. The foundation’s donation went towards the Mommy and Me Little Swimmers program, while Chevron’s donation was for general assistance.
“We are so grateful for the generous donations from both Chevron and the Florence McFarlane Martin Memorial Foundation,” said Mary Illingworth, director of Jack’s Helping Hand. “Donations like these help us continue to provide the services and assistance to children with special needs all over San Luis Obispo County.”
Since 2004, Jack’s Helping Hand has established and provided community programs that enable and empower families, professionals and the broader community to meet the unique unmet physical, mental and medical needs of special children and adults who have not attained the age of 21. The organization provides special treatments, services, equipment and transportation that are not provided by other sources; or which exceed family financial capability.
The Mommy and Me Little Swimmer’s program provides children with special needs, ages 2 through 12, with fun aquatic activities that encourage both social and physical development. Sessions are held on Fridays from 1 to 2 p.m. in a warm water therapy pool near San Luis Obispo High School.
Chevron is known for its local community involvement and nonprofit support. Likewise, Jack’s Helping Hand volunteer Meghan Martin connected with Jack’s Helping Hand and fostered this gift to support children in need. She is Florence’s granddaughter and a foundation board member.
The organization relies solely on donations and sponsorships to assist special children in need. To donate or for more information, please call (805) 547-1914, e-mail [email protected], or visit www.jackshelpinghand.org.