FAIRHOPE, Ala. — A harsh economy is a knife that cuts both ways. In addition to hurting folks through job loss and home foreclosure, the nonprofit agencies that help the downtrodden often need a little more assistance, too.

Ecumenical Ministries Inc. depends greatly on funding from people and businesses, and as donors cut back on spending, that could affect the organization’s bottom line.

“Our biggest contributors are individuals in the community,” said Jennifer Crawford, EMI executive director. “We hope they’re not greatly impacted economically.”

EMI is a United Way agency, and contributions funneled through the umbrella group account for about $70,000 of the budget each year, Crawford noted. That makes the United Way EMI’s second largest funding source. With much of the United Way money originating through payroll deduction, she fears less money might be available to pass along.

“That’s something we’re concerned about,” Crawford said. “We’re going into the holiday season, and with it comes our greatest need for support.”

EMI is currently booked for two weeks, handling utility bill and prescription drug support. The organization is also working with Daphne United Methodist Church, the Prodisee Pantry in Spanish Fort and other groups to provide food to those in need. Knowing what is requested by the clients helps EMI restock its pantry.

She pointed out the number of food stamp applications are on the rise, and lots of apartment dwellers are facing eviction. That means EMI faces an even greater need of contributions.

“The needs are big financially,” Crawford said. “It’s not just $100 that will help, but $600. We have to rely a lot on our churches (and other entities in the community).”

With funding harder to come by, EMI must tighten its belt. Crawford said of some services, “We can help once or twice, but it has to be a medical hardship after that. We’re having to watch financially what we can do because we’re having people come to us for financial assistance. They’ve lost jobs, or had their hours cut back. They’re struggling to pay basic bills, gas and transportation.”

EMI’s Christmas Sharing program is under way, and the group is seeking support to help fill family gift baskets. Crawford said, “We’re trying to get sponsors for our children.”

She noted EMI is tweaking the qualification guidelines, including requiring a copy of the family’s 2007 income tax returns, information about who is in the household and their ages and whether anyone is on disability.

“We ask that people who qualify for our program not be employed for more than six months, unless they have children who are not in school,” Crawford said. “Christmas Sharing is to provide Christmas for families that would not otherwise be able to provide Christmas (presents) for their children.”

This assistance enables parents to pay regular bills such as utilities, but puts a strain on the agency.

Crawford said, “We realize (some) people in our community might not be able to sponsor children. The community has been great though. They haven’t forgotten about us. We encourage them to come in and bring food by. We’re fortunate to live in a compassionate community.”

Area residents have another opportunity to help on Valentine’s Day when EMI presents its annual Chili for Charity event. Crawford said Tom Jones will once again produce the pottery, including heart-shaped chili bowls.

Entertainment will include Blind Dog Mike, and many more children’s activities than in years past.

Crawford said she hopes they will make EMI’s goal of having a record-breaking 40 chili teams this year. The event is the group’s third-largest fundraiser.

To help Ecumenical Ministries help others, call the Fairhope office at (251) 928-3430, or the Foley office at (251) 943-3445.