ASHEVILLE – Spare Change grants announced
The Asheville Downtown Association Foundation recently announced the recipients of grants from funds collected through the Spare Change for Real Change program. Spare Change collection boxes located throughout downtown serve as an alternative to giving to panhandlers.
Many area businesses match funds collected in Spare Change boxes or supplement the program with significant donations.
“Spare Change for Real Change was designed to reduce panhandling and channel funds to the organizations that are helping people get back on their feet,” said Dwight Butner, chair of the foundation.
Receiving grants were:
Homeward Bound of Asheville, $5,000 to fight homelessness.
Western Carolina Rescue Ministries, $3,000 to provide services for the homeless.
The Salvation Army, $2,000 to offer food, shelter, and assistance to the needy.
The Spare Change program also unveiled a colorful new look for downtown's donation boxes, to be implemented in the coming weeks.
For more information, visit ashevilledowntown.org.