Betsy White Emergency Fund

The Emergency Loan Fund was established in 1969 by the Women's Club of Garrett Park and renamed in 1973 as a memorial to Betsy White, an officer and beloved member of the Club. The purpose of the fund is to provide emergency financial assistance to residents of the town when other resources are not available. The loans are interest free and can be repaid when the emergency has passed, if possible. This helps replenish the fund for others in need.

Three trustees are appointed by the executives of the Women's Club for a three-year term, to be rotated so that one trustee retires each year. Reappointments can be made. The trustee serving the longest acts as chairman. If a trustee is not available when an application is made, the current President serves during his or her absence.

Applications for funds are made to the Town Clerk-Treasurer, who refers the application to the Board of Trustees. The decisions made by the Trustees are reported to the Town Clerk who, under normal circumstances, is the only person who has direct contact with the applicant. This is a discreet fund, and the appointed Trustees conduct all business in a confidential manner.

The fund is maintained by money raised by the Women's Club, supplemented by donations and bequests from Garrett Park residents and others. Over the years this fund has been well used, and in particular in the last 4 years (2003-2006) a number of requests have been received. As a result, the fund balance is currently lower than usual. If you wish to make a contribution, checks can be made to the Town of Garrett Park (please indicate the Betsy White Emergency Loan Fund in your check's memo space), Box 84, Garrett Park, MD 20896. These gifts are fully tax-deductible.