Worcester County Gold, Inc. (Giving Other Lives Dignity) Provides A Helping Hand During Times Of Financial Difficulty And Crisis
History: In 1996, The Worcester County Department of Social Services conducted a needs assessment, which ultimately identified a gap in emergency services available to Worcester County citizens.
In response to the assessment results, Worcester County GOLD, Inc. was officially established as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in 1997. GOLD’s vast array of services was designed to address and fill the gap by providing Worcester County residents with a safety net to meet emergency needs.
In the years since its inception, GOLD has carried out its initial vision to promote dignity in the community by lending a helping hand to those who need it the most. In 2018, GOLD delivered essential support for 919 families, including 1,292 adults and 1,468 children.
In addition to providing assistance in emergency situations, such as preventing the disconnection of utility service, GOLD also runs annual programs and drives including distributing backpacks and grade-appropriate school supplies to students, managing summer activities for at-risk youth, delivering turkey meals for Thanksgiving, and offering holiday assistance through the “Helping Hands for the Holidays” program.
This year, GOLD was awarded the “Non-Profit of the Year” by the Ocean City Chamber of Commerce.
THE GOLD STANDARD Worcester County GOLD, Inc. provides a variety of programs and services for the community, including school supplies for students, seasonal clothing and outerwear and Helping Hands for the Holidays.
Who it Helps: The recipients of GOLD’s services and support are local residents who fall below the poverty line and include families in crisis, vulnerable adults, those who are homeless, and children in foster care.
How to Help: GOLD’s paid staff includes only one full-time employee and one part-time employee, so community support and participation are essential for the organization to carry out its mission successfully. Last year, GOLD received support from over 200 volunteers from across the county, and they are hoping to increase volunteer numbers in the future. If you are unable to serve in a volunteer capacity, you can also make an impact by making a monetary donation.
Worcester County gold, inc. | 410-677-6830 | WorcesterGold.org
Compiled by Alison Clary