Belated Christmas Gift

Sonora, CA — Three local charities have been given surprise year-end grants.

The Sonora Area Foundation has awarded Interfaith Social Services and Catholic Charities of the Mother Lode each $20,000 as recipients of the annual Irving J. Symons Award for excellent community service. In addition, Southside Senior Services, Inc. (SSSI) was given $10,000 as the recipient of the Elaine Symons Baker Community Impact Award.

Executive Director Ed Wyllie says it’s kind of a belated Christmas gift. “It’s an incentive to keep up the good work,” he adds. Wyllie says the funds are unrestricted and can be used for any program.

The Foundation touted how busy Interfaith and Catholic Charities are throughout the year. They were also especially important during the Rim Fire. The award to Interfaith was made in honor of the late Mary Salvarezza, the founder and former director of Interfaith who passed away last month.

The Directors also noted the award to SSSI will provide a boost to continue senior services to those living in the south county area.