CLEVELAND, Ga. — Pam Walden brings more than a half-century of social services experience to her newly elected role as president of White County Caring & Sharing. The local non-profit streamlines emergency assistance to those in need.
“Caring and Sharing serves a vital role in helping White County residents in financial crisis meet such basic needs as housing and utilities,” says Walden, who was elected to a three-year term as president of the all-volunteer organization. “Our objective is not just to provide emergency bill payment, but, moreover, to lovingly assist our neighbors in leading fruitful, spiritually rich lives.”
Walden joined the White County Caring & Sharing Board two decades ago, following retirement after 34 years with the Georgia Department of Human Services.
Over $2M in assistance since 1990
“White County Caring and Sharing strives to make decisions that give the most benefit to local families and individuals while facilitating best stewardship of benevolence funds,” she says. “We’re deeply appreciative of regular contributions received from numerous churches, as well as White County Community Thrift Store, United Way of White County, and others.”
“We invite additional churches, organizations, and citizens to participate,” adds Walden.
Caring & Sharing has provided more than $2 million in total assistance since it was founded in 1990 through the efforts of local clergy and business leaders.
Since the COVID-19 pandemic hit in 2020, Caring & Sharing revised its procedures to include online applications at the organization’s website at www.whitecountycaringandsharing.com. In addition, those seeking assistance may phone 706-892-4806.
Several local churches participate in the process on a rotating basis, with payments made directly to landlords, utility companies, and other providers. Caring & Sharing board members approve payments, guided by a software program for assistance tracking.
Applicants must prove at least three months of White County residency and be able to furnish original bills. Funds are limited. Applicants may receive assistance only once every six months, with a lifetime limit of three assists per household. There also are dollar limits on how much assistance can be provided.
Walden assumes the Caring & Sharing presidency from the Rev. Marc Turner, lead pastor of Cleveland Worship Center, who takes over Walden’s previous role as vice president.
Re-elected in November to officer terms from 2024 through 2026 are Laura Cormier as secretary, the Rev. Dennis Turner as treasurer and unpaid executive director, and Paul Scott Abbott as public relations officer.
Note: A similar organization operates in Habersham County under the name Sharing & Caring
