THE NEW ECONOMY: Faith In Action BLOOMINGTON - Patsy Kramer has been using the services of Faith in Action for about a year and a half. The program has volunteers who drive seniors to places like the grocery store and doctors' offices.

Kramer, 77, who lives at Anglers Manor, thought that sounded convenient since she was a little ill.

Now, she uses the service about twice a month and has formed a bond with those who help her.

"We have become very close friends, and they really are a big help," Kramer said.

The interfaith ministry helps more people than ever because of the worsening economy. Executive Director Bobby Hynes said volunteer hours increased from 2,500 hours in 2007 to around 3,700.

"Some of it can be attributed to people wanting to save money for their essentials, like house payments and groceries," she said. "If they can save some money in that area, it makes it easier and we can help them with things like transportation or house work."

The ministry includes all faiths and denominations, and has more than 125 volunteers who help with driving, house chores, visiting or making a phone call. Faith in Action started in 2004 with help from a Robert Wood Johnson Foundation grant that provided funds up to 30 months.

Now, the program relies exclusively on donations, which remain steady, Hynes said.

"We have noticed that our donation base has remained relatively stable, but we have also noticed that people are nervous of what's going to happen," Hynes said. "People of faith in the Bloomington-Normal area understand that giving is one thing, and that sacrificial giving is another, and they choose to give to Faith in Action in a sacrificial way."

Volunteer Frank Ripsom of Bloomington, who drives seniors for Faith in Action, started helping after he retired from State Farm Insurance Cos. He's also involved with other groups.

"There was never an issue of money and we haven't had any impact on us which would have a negative bearing," Ripsom said. "Some of the people we have helped have said that everything is getting expensive, and they are on a limited income."

Hynes said only two volunteers - who pay for their own fuel - quit because of high gas prices.

Kramer supports herself with Social Security benefits and now is spending an extra $50 a month on groceries. Kramer is grateful for the help she receives from Faith in Action.

"I haven't given it that much thought, but I don't know what I would do if they weren't around," she said.

Contact Faith in Action at (309) 827-7780.