Emma Driscoll is a senior English major at the University of Notre Dame. As part of her internship with Make a Difference Michiana, she has pieced together recent media stories regarding the economic climate in Elkhart Couny.

The economic recession’s significant impact on Elkhart and the resulting rise in unemployment in the county has spurred national attention, action and volunteerism. Included here are several articles from The South Bend Tribune that shed light on the current situation in Elkhart and offer resources to those interested in reaching out to the Elkhart community.

What is happening in Elkhart?

Elkhart isn’t quite as portrayed nationally

Leaders in Elkhart examine the make-up of the city’s economy and emphasize its advantages — such as low cost of living, proximity to Chicago, entrepreneurship and affordable labor — as strengths that will enable Elkhart to re-strengthen its economy.

Demand for GED classes increase with job losses

Since more people have been losing jobs and the fear of unemployment is rising, a rapidly growing number of Elkhart residents have signed up to earn a GED. Spaces in GED classes have filled rapidly and waitlists are growing long.

How is the county responding?

Elkhart County ‘fishing’ for new industry

Elkhart is looking into fish farming as a way to stimulate the economy and use RV plants that have been recently vacated.

Michiana legislative watch: RV, chain restaurant, parent care bills advance to Indiana Senate

Three bills will be considered by Indiana Senate. One of the bills seeks to exempt sales tax on recreational vehicles and cargo trailers purchased by consumers that live out of state.

Green businesses unsure of how stimulus will help them

How are the people of Elkhart and surrounding areas responding?

International relief organizations helping people in their own backyard

Organizations that typically focus their relief efforts internationally are reaching out to the Elkhart community.

Elkhart ministry packs kids’ backpacks with weekend food

An Elkhart ministry has introduced a program at Hawthorne Elementary School to help students bring food home to consumer on weekends.

Economy increases pet donations at local shelters

Due to the changes in their financial situation, many people are unable to keep their pets and have donated them to shelters.

Community garden plots available