The downturn in the local economy is beginning more and more to surface in the lives of our neighbors in Newton County. With no relief in sight, what is being done or can be done for those in our community feeling the greatest effects?

As gas and food prices rise as well as unemployment, more residents will turn to public assistance, which in turn puts a greater burden on the system as a whole.

Newton County, in April, recorded nearly 600 unemployment claims, according to the Georgia Department of Labor, more than 200 more claims than either Rockdale or Walton counties.

Food stamp applications have also been up in 2008. From December 2007 to January 2008, the number of applications jumped from 414 to 661 with 595 applications being filed in April.

The strain of public assistance is not only being felt in the public sector, but in the nonprofit sector as well. The Community Food Pantry in Covington has had to operate with increasing food costs while trying to serve a greater number of people.

According to officials at the food pantry, right now the operation is keeping its head above water, but that situation may change if the current economic trends continue.

As we go forward during uncertain economic times, additional steps will need to be taken to aid those in need. The problem of a growing number of residents needing assistance will have to be addressed - not only by national and state governments but by local governments as well.

The more proactive government can be in a situation such as this the less of a blow we feel when push comes to shove down the road. Barring a major change in the economic climate, we are most likely going to see more folks in need.