With a rough economy still hanging over us, two local endeavors to help the neediest people in our community received a lifeline of their own last week and it’s cause for celebration.
Everett’s domestic violence program, which coordinates law enforcement, legal services and victims’ advocates to help women, got notice of a well-deserved $500,000 in federal funding. In January, city council members vowed to keep the program alive after federal money dried up. But it was costly and the city had to cut back on the program’s training and the salary for a legal advocate. Still, the city deserves credit for keeping it afloat until the next grant process could be completed.
With all the work that has been accomplished by this team, and the high standards it set for similar programs in the area and beyond, it was sad to see services scaled back at all. The money will help restore the program and reach more women by printing brochures in several different languages and educating women about their legal options — another benefit for our growing and culturally diverse community.
Even more locally, organizations and individuals came forward to put a dreamed-about nonprofit clinic over the top. When the clinic’s doors open in January in north Everett, everyone really will be able to call it a community clinic thanks in part to the Tulalip Tribes and the Providence Health System, along with scores of others whose combined contributions totaled more than $700,000. It should come as no surprise to anyone that health-care costs have skyrocketed and many Snohomish County residents without insurance can’t possibly afford the services, even with state medical coupons. This clinic should help reverse that for many low-income children and adults.
While generous contributors deserve thanks, this community owes a considerable amount to Dr. Tony Roon, who isn’t resting on the generous donations. He’s out seeking more. He and Snohomish County Executive Bob Drewel, who led the effort with Roon, have left a legacy for this area that should serve us for years to come.
These projects are proof that even in bad times communities can come together and great, even expensive, things can be accomplished. Both the clinic and the domestic violence unit help meet immediate needs and quell dangers while improving our communities and lives long-term.
It’s money well spent.
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