$25,000 will go to HelpLine

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Community Works will be improving its HelpLine services, thanks to a $25,000 William and Florence Schneider Fund grant from the Oregon Community Foundation.

The money will help upgrade the agency's phone and database systems and ultimately improve services to individuals who access the agency's HelpLine for information to address crises and a range of other needs.

The grant may be renewed for a second year at $20,000.

The Community Works HelpLine supports community members 24 hours a day, seven days a week, answering some 13,000 calls per year, said Anna D'Amato, Community Works director of victim services.

Community Works serves high-need youths, victims of domestic and sexual violence, and the community generally through a variety of programs and services. The agency's efforts have continued for more than 36 years, but without sufficient staff to collect and manage the resources, she said.

"Now information will be more readily available and quickly accessed when a person calls the HelpLine in need of crisis support or just information," she said.

The Oregon Community Foundation awards more than $60 million annually in grants and scholarships. The foundation makes grants though an application process that involves local citizens in the review and evaluation of requests for funds. Application materials are available through its Portland office. Individuals or businesses interested in establishing a fund may contact the Medford office at 818 W. Eighth St. or call 773-8987.

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