FAIRHOPE — Everyone’s complaining about the heat, but some residents are suffering more because of it. And Ecumenical Ministries Inc. needs some assistance to keep helping those who really need some relief. They are hoping the community will help “Take the heat off EMI by donating dollars.”

“So far, EMI has not turned away those who need help, however, we are helping them at a much lower level.  With the pressing circumstances and increased demand, there is concern we could run out of money for emergency aid,” said Jennifer Bruijn, EMI director.

The nonprofit organization budgets between $70,000 to $75,000 a year for emergency aid. Last year, the EMI Emergency Aid program assisted 1,790 clients. They expect to exceed that number this year. Bruijn said the funds are used to help clients with rent or mortgage assistance, utilities, gasoline and basic medical and dental needs.

However, the rising cost in gasoline and increased utility usage due to the extreme temperatures the Gulf Coast has been experiencing over the past few weeks have increased the number of families needing help. Those with children have had the added expense of getting their children back in school, which, Bruijn said, means uniforms, supplies and fees. She shared two examples of families in need of help.

“One woman came in Monday, a single, working mom,” Bruijn said. “She and her three children have been without utilities for two months. Now they have moved out of their residence and are living with other family members, and the sleeping arrangements aren’t good.” She has relied on family and other people to help her, but has run out of options.”

EMI is assisting another local family. The husband has cancer, and his condition is deteriorating, Bruijn said. His wife has to stay home and care for him while their children are in school. “Air conditioning is a must due to his medical condition and to help him breathe more easily.” Because they are on a fixed income with a high utility bill and additional back-to-school expenses for the children, EMI has helped to keep their utilities turned on.

“It’s difficult cases like these when families are in a fragile situation that our organization wants to help,” said Bruijn.

Starting Monday, EMI staffers will take to the Fairhope EMI office roof at 9 a.m. and maintain their rooftop presence until Wednesday at 4 p.m. They hope to raise $15,000 from this campaign. Staffers will work two-hour shifts, Bruijn said, adding “We are working to ensure we can do this safely, but we’re willing to do whatever it takes in order to serve the unmet needs of those in our community who come to us for help.”

Donations can be made 24 hours a day during the three-day campaign. Folks who want to visit the 564 Fairhope Ave. site in person will be able to drop their donation into the marathon bucket lowered by the staff on the roof, or place their contribution through the mail slot in the front door. Those who choose to mail in a donation should send it to the address above and note their donation is for the Emergency Aid Program. The Foley EMI office at 102 W. Spruce St. will take donations during office hours from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. all week long, Bruijn said.

Ecumenical Ministries Inc. is a partnering agency of Baldwin County United Way.  It operates 10 programs for the needy in the community which includes two emergency aid offices, two food pantries, Eastern Shore Meals on Wheels, gleaning, home repair, prescription assistance, Emmy’s Thrift Shop, BC H.O.P.E. housing education, community organizing and Christmas Sharing. For more information, call the Fairhope office at 928-3430.