The Woodyard Fund
The Woodyard Fund traces its roots to 1816 in Columbia, when the Ladies Benevolent Society provided firewood to needy families.
In 1930 the cause was embraced by William E. Gonzales, then editor of The State newspaper. Each winter since then, the paper has continued publicizing the charity. Donations ranging from $2 to more than $1,000 help the neediest in the community stay warm in the winter.
The Salvation Army screens applicants, who are selected based on income level, illness or special circumstances such as a house fire. Residents in Richland, Lexington, Newberry and Fairfield counties are eligible. In general, folks will have received a “past due, to be cut off” notice to qualify.
The Salvation Army of the Midlands helps the elderly in need by providing food boxes, a seniors program, and visitation to nursing homes. The Woodyard Fund exists to help keep homes warm during the winter. In addition to assisting the elderly, the Woodyard Fund helps families in financial crisis and people with disabling conditions or severe medical problems by maintaining utility service.
“You show them your receipts. They want to see where your money is going before they help you.”
--Linda Davis, 54-year-old disabled woman and former open-heart surgery patient
From December 2009 to April 2010, the Woodyard Fund helped 405 families keep their homes heated during the cold winter months.
You can help continue the good work that The Salvation Army is doing by making an undesignated donation to be used where funds are necessary. Donations may be sent to The Salvation Army, P.O. Drawer 2786, Columbia, SC 29202.
Source of Linda Davis' quote: "Woodyard Fund: Disabled woman gets heating help" By Devon Copeland The State Published on January 5, 2009