WHAM makes charity wish list

The number of families seeking aid because of layoffs and underemployment means everyone is tightening their belts. Houston area churches and relief agencies are hard-pressed because donations are down across the board.
According to West Houston Assistance Ministries, Inc. (WHAM), any size donation can help children and families in crisis who live in Houston. The WHAM Awareness Campaign raises funds to operate programs that serve children, families and homeless individuals. Funds also allow WHAM to operate more efficiently.
Unfortunately, WHAM has had to turn away more than 4,100 families who asked for help because of a lack of funding and limited capacity. The need continues to rise.
There has been a 25 percent increase in demand for services in the last three years. WHAM spends 83 percent of its budget on family program services. Contributions help those in crisis. This is the WHAM wish list:
Commercial scale for the food pantry, $2,200
Security cameras for CARE Ministry and Second Blessing Store, $3,000
Four chairs for CARE Ministry reception area, $500
Fax machine for administrative services, $250
Laptop computer for CARE Ministry, $750
Computer printer, $150
Electric hole punch, $165
New copier for administrative services, $10,000
Cargo van for food pantry deliveries, $24,400
WHAM will be collecting items and funds for the campaign until July 4.
For more information or to donate online, visit www.whamministries.org and click on the Wish List link.