Paris, Tenn.–The official total of money raised for the 2021 Helping Hand Auction is $302,343.00.
As we reported February 26, Helping Hand hit the $300,000 mark with a donation from Henry County Medical Center a couple weeks ago.
But Helping Hand Treasurer Susan Bell Tuesday announced the final figures had been tabulated, bringing the total to $302,343.00.
Bell said, “Amazing!!!! Henry County you should be proud!!!! This Volunteer County of the Volunteer State never lets you down!!! Thank you for all the donations of items or money!!”
Even during a world-wide pandemic, the Henry County Helping Hand Auction this year was able to raise thousands of dollars for over 80 non-profit organizations.
As we previously reported, applications for monies to be distributed from the 2021 Helping Hand were available online beginning Monday, March 1. Forms may be accessed at Facebook.com/henrycountyhelpinghand or by email request at Helping Hand1695@gmail.com.
Paper copies may be picked up at McLean & McLean Law Office, 206 W. Washington St. in Paris. Applications must be filled out and returned to Helping Hand via email or in person at McLean and McLean by 5 p.m. March 15 and will not be accepted after the deadline. No exceptions. For questions, call Susan Bell at 731-694-0192.
The COVID pandemic prompted the Helping Hand board to think outside the box in many ways, with the traditional daily Radio Auction format cancelled in favor of new ways to raise money– including a virtual auction with homemade items donated by local citizens, large donations matched by organizations such as Paris BPU and the Tennessee Valley Authority, and direct monetary donations from citizens and businesses. As in previous years, big-money items were donated and auctioned, including boats and other items.