(Aspen, CO) A short film documenting the experiences of eight valley residents who have received assistance from local Health and Human Service organizations will kick off the Annual Budget Presentation of Joint City/County Health and Human Services next week. Approximately $1,400,000 is available for grant-making every year from the Healthy Community Fund. This year 29 health and human services agencies, as well as 29 community non-profits, are being awarded grants.
“The film really documents the impact our health and human service organizations are having on the lives of individuals and families in our valley who are struggling to survive here,” said Deputy Director of Pitkin County Health and Human Services, Mitzi Ledingham. “It may be difficult for some to believe, but times are tough for many in our community, and our community agencies offer a wide range of programs and services that can make all the difference for people who are struggling and in need.”
After the film, four different Health and Human Services agencies will discuss emerging issues, challenges and continuing impacts of the recession that their agencies are experiencing. The agencies are Alpine Legal Services, Family Visitor Program, the Aspen Homeless Shelter, and YouthZone.
“Conditions in our community have remained much the same as last year,” Ledingham said. “Our Health and Human Services agencies have to accomplish more with less as the demand for their services increases and grants and donor gifts remain flat or are reduced.”
The public is invited to attend the meeting on Tuesday, October 19th at 4 p.m. at Aspen City Hall, Council Chambers, 130 S. Galena St., Aspen. The meeting will be televised live and rebroadcast on CGTV Channel 11. It will also be available for viewing online at www.aspenpitkin.com under “City Spotlight – Watch Webcasts.” For more information call 920-5766.