What seems like a great outpouring of support has hit local charities hard. Since the devastating aftermath of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, nonprofit organizations and local charities have seen tremendous drops in support.

The Weakley County Red Cross chapter, a partner with United Way, is just one of the local nonprofit organizations that have experienced this effect. Cindy Young, chapter manager for the Weakley County Red Cross, said “People don’t think of us unless they need us. But it is easy to forget that at one time or another we all have had a friend or a family member that has relied on the Red Cross to help them through their emergency. The hurricane victims still need our support but we must not overlook our local charities and fund-raising organizations.”

Since July 1 there have been six fires in Martin alone. The local Red Cross chapter has spent over $1700 helping these families with immediate emergency needs. In four months, the WCARC has spent double the amount helping victims of home fires than was spent all of last year.

In an effort to restore funds and gain community support, UTM “Students for the American Red Cross” is sponsoring a benefit concert. The concert, “A Tribute to Elvis,” will feature Kenny Presley, a talented and recognized performer. Presley has performed with several famous people including Trace Adkins, Jimmy Buffet, and Allison Krause. For the last year and a half, Presley has been touring with Collin Raye.

The benefit concert will be held at in Watkins Auditorium. The concert will begin at 7 p.m. and tickets will be $10 in advance and $12 at the door. For ticket information, email WeakleyARC@aol.com or call 587-5893 or 587-5948.

We Care Ministries is another organization that has felt the effects of the hurricanes. Director of the Weakley County We Care, Betty Baker said, “The community has met our needs so far, we just have more needs now than ever before.” Thursday October 27 We Care is having “Drive In & Drop Day” from 8:30 a.m. until 5:00 p.m.

Volunteers from We Care will be outside awaiting your donation. The community is encouraged to donate canned goods to meet the rising needs. To learn more about helping We Care Ministries in Weakley County, you can call 587-6257.