Thurmond Pledges Up to $10,000 to Help Local Non-Profit

December 17, 2007 9:16 AM

RICHMOND - Councilmember Tony Thurmond pledged up to $10,000 of his campaign funds this Saturday to match contributions to GRIP, the Greater Richmond Interfaith Program, which provides food, shelter and support services to homeless families.

"We can't keep waiting and hoping for change, we need to make change," said Thurmond. "Organizations like GRIP need our support to provide basic services to families and individuals that face homelessness."

"Homelessness is often the final and worst stage of a community in despair. That's why we also need to address the root of the problem-to reform health care, fix our foster system, secure jobs and job training and stop the violence that plagues our neighborhoods," said Thurmond. "I'm running for the State Assembly because I'm ready to make that change in the 14th district."

"We are extremely thankful for Councilmember Thurmond's generosity," said Arthur Hatchett, the Executive Director of GRIP. "It's refreshing to see a community leader so sincere and dedicated to the causes they speak on behalf of. With Councilmember Thurmond's donation, GRIP will be able to provide much-needed services to families and individuals striving to get off the streets."

Thurmond made the pledge to a room packed full of supporters at a campaign holiday party. Encouraging others to give as well, Thurmond said he would match up to $10,000 in donations to GRIP with funds he has raised for his State Assembly race. Thurmond's campaign hosted the party to support GRIP and other local non-profits.