On Wednesday February 15th, the Directed Giving Campaign Committee donated $3,500 to the Friends of 40 Prado. The committee consists of The City of San Luis Obispo, United Way of San Luis Obispo County and the San Luis Obispo Downtown Association and has guided the “Make Change Count” meter program from a pilot program to an establishment in Downtown SLO.
In its third year the Make Change Count program has raised funds to support local homeless services and provide an opportunity for the community to put their change toward a good cause. This most recent donation has been made possible by community member donations at the 7 giving stations and the support of the Rotary Club of San Luis Obispo Daybreak, Dignity Health and Tenet Health. Donations can be made at any of the stations with change or with a credit card or from the comfort of your home by visiting United Way of SLO County’s website.
Many people walk through Downtown and after shopping find themselves carrying change in their pockets and as a result are asked for spare change. This program has provided our community members that are uncomfortable with panhandlers an opportunity to donate their change toward homeless solutions. Residents and guests have proven to be extremely generous in the pursuit to help one of the most fragile populations in our county. This community’s compassion is ever present and people want to help stop homelessness and give their funds to panhandlers and loiterers in the Downtown. Unfortunately, cash handouts often support addictions that will keep many of the individuals soliciting the funds on the streets and out of much needed services. By directing donations to a service provider, you can guarantee that your money is going toward a program that will help local homeless individuals transition into a home and a better life.
If you have any questions about this program or are considering a donation, please contact the San Luis Obispo Downtown Association or the United Way of San Luis Obispo County at 541-1234.