Golf tournament to benefit low-income families in need

Sat., July 3, 2004

By Melodie Little melodiel@spokesman.com

The Spokane Valley Community Center is holding its annual tournament at MeadowWood Golf Course to raise money so low-income people can avoid utility shutoffs.

Proceeds from the July 22 tournament go into an emergency fund for heat and water bills.

According to Mollie Dalpae, center director, the staff is seeing an increasing number of clients who have never before asked for help.

“We’re averaging 50 families a month coming through for emergency assistance. Half have never received help through us before. It shocked us,” Dalpae said.

As energy costs have risen, so has the need for help. For some, cold winter days in subpar housing result in astronomical heat bills. In the past three years, the cost of helping families through short-term financial crises has more than doubled.

Last year 3,500 people and families received $46,289 in emergency aid. This year Dalpae expects that the center will spend even more.

“Year to date, we’ve spent $30,951 preventing utility shut-offs, and that’s what the golf tournament is all about and we’re hoping to raise $11,000 there,” Dalpae said. “It makes a dent, but it doesn’t cure the whole budget problems that we continually have.”

In addition to paying bills, the center uses golf tournament funds to purchase caulk, plastic sheeting, door sweeps, outlet covers and flow-reducing shower heads to help clients lower utility bills. Classes teach clients how to install energy-saving devices and use materials to create makeshift storm windows and barriers that block drafts.

Entry fees are $100 per person and include greens fees, cart, dinner and prizes. Players can register in four-person teams, or individuals can be placed onto other teams.

George Gee is donating a new car for a hole-in-one prize, and giveaways include a golf trip for two to Arizona (including airfare, accommodations and golf), rounds of golf, Gonzaga basketball tickets and other trips and items.

The scramble begins with a shotgun start at 1:30 p.m. To purchase tickets, call 927-1153.

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