Community Foundation raises $4.21 million to help those in crisis

The Community Foundation of Sarasota County’s annual Season of Sharing campaign has raised $4.21 million to help those experiencing financial crisis in Sarasota County and beyond. 

During the last three months, more than 2,600 donations were received to offer stability for those on the economic edge in the region.

Now in its 24th year, the campaign has benefited nearly 49,000 households from Punta Gorda to Parrish by providing more than $43.5 million to assist with housing, utilities, child care and transportation.

“It is so uplifting to see how, year after year, Season of Sharing affirms our community’s generous nature and that we have dedicated, vibrant supporters and nonprofit partners who are changing our community for the better,” said CFSC President and CEO Roxie Jerde. “Season of Sharing demonstrates how much we can accomplish when we work together to transform lives, whatever our means.”

For the fourth straight year, philanthropic partner The Patterson Foundation surpassed $500,000 in support through matching opportunities, contributing $100,000 for every $500,000 raised by the community. Over the past three years, the Patterson Foundation has granted $2 million in response to the community support.

All Season of Sharing contributions are directly applied to requests for help and are disbursed to landlords, utility services, child care centers and auto mechanic shops.