The Charlotte area's slumping economy is the main reason why a growing number of people are coming to Loaves & Fishes for help, according to a survey conducted by the organization earlier this month.

Beverly Howard, executive director of Loaves & Fishes, said Wednesday that the survey showed 62 percent of those seeking help attributed their problems to the economy -- especially layoffs and reduced working hours.

“I thought the need would have leveled off by now, but it hasn’t,” she said.

The survey was taken over a 10-day period around the beginning of November, as Loaves & Fishes geared up for its busiest time of the year. The Charlotte-based organization receives the biggest percentage of its donations annually in November and December.

“That’s the time of year when people are thinking about those in need,” Howard said.

Read the complete story at charlotteobserver.com Beverly Howard, executive director of Loaves & Fishes, said Wednesday that the survey showed 62 percent of those seeking help attributed their problems to the economy -- especially layoffs and reduced working hours.

“I thought the need would have leveled off by now, but it hasn’t,” she said.

The survey was taken over a 10-day period around the beginning of November, as Loaves & Fishes geared up for its busiest time of the year. The Charlotte-based organization receives the biggest percentage of its donations annually in November and December.

“That’s the time of year when people are thinking about those in need,” Howard said.

Read more: http://www.charlotteobserver.com/2010/11/17/1844869/survey-charlotte-economy-driving.html#ixzz15YoeyPgrBeverly Howard, executive director of Loaves & Fishes, said Wednesday that the survey showed 62 percent of those seeking help attributed their problems to the economy -- especially layoffs and reduced working hours.

“I thought the need would have leveled off by now, but it hasn’t,” she said.

The survey was taken over a 10-day period around the beginning of November, as Loaves & Fishes geared up for its busiest time of the year. The Charlotte-based organization receives the biggest percentage of its donations annually in November and December.

“That’s the time of year when people are thinking about those in need,” Howard said.

Read more: http://www.charlotteobserver.com/2010/11/17/1844869/survey-charlotte-economy-driving.html#ixzz15YoeyPgr