The Vivian Reid Community Fund provides emergency financial assistance to older adults in Howard County whose needs cannot be met by public funds. The fund began with an initial donation from Vivian Reid, a former administrator of the Howard County Office on Aging, and continues today thanks to generous donations from the local community.

In 2010 assistance increased by 42% over last year with most funds being used to help older adults facing utility turn-offs and eviction. Often the Fund will work with other agencies to provide needed services. Recently, the Reid Fund was used to assist a 65 year old transition from an out-of-state assisted living facility to be near family here in Howard County. He arrived with a mattress and a chair. The Vivian Reid Fund bought a bed frame, linens and other household items. The Office on Aging worked with the Christian Women’s Thrift shop who donated furniture, kitchen ware, a radio and small TV. This gentleman has now successfully transitioned to independent living, has new friends in his apartment building and is thankful for the kindness and help he received from neighbors who care.

Each year, fundraiser's like our Fall Fest, help to support the Vivian Reid Fund to meet the needs of an ever-increasing older adult population in Howard County.