Help also needed here at home in Bonner County

The shocking scenes showing the tragedy of Hurricane Katrina demonstrate the need to help our fellow citizens.

While I may not be able to make a dent in that relief effort, I am moved to be more aware of crucial needs here in my own community.

On Aug. 31, the Daily Bee ran a story about the Bonner Partners in Care Clinic stating, "a tiny volunteer clinic that's been like a godsend to the county's underinsured needs something close to a godsend of its own."

Federal funding and grant money have been cut at the clinic operating at the Panhandle Health District. More than any other source of funding, Partners is dependent on community financial support to keep its doors open. I'd like to see the clinic continue to operate.

I understand that donations can be made to Bonner Partners in Care Clinic, Inc. and sent to the attention of clinic director Lora Cartelli at 1020 Michigan Ave., Sandpoint.

PATRICIA RAMSEY

Kootenai