United Way chief expects hard times

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) - The head of United Way of Rhode Island says hard times for the state’s social service agencies could extend well into next year.

The Providence Journal reports that agency chief executive officer and president Anthony Maione told the Washington County Coalition for Children on Sunday that despite difficulties caused by the sputtering economy, United Way is committed to its mission.

Maione says social service agencies are already dealing with rising demand and less money.

He says about 63 percent of the organizations surveyed by United Way report that demand for services has increased in the last year, most by at least 30 percent.

At the same time, 60 percent of the nonprofit organizations surveyed reported a decrease in income over the last 12 months.