ZELIENOPLE — For about 35 years, a local fund has aided borough residents suffering from sickness.

Howard E. Eckhart’s trust fund helps an average of four people each year, said Mayor Tom Oliverio.

“It’s been very good,” Oliverio said.

However, no one has received help from the fund yet this year, Oliverio said.

The fund was originally intended to help people who had polio, which Eckhart himself suffered from.

Eckhart died in 1965 at the age of 72.

The money also can be used for cancer patients.

“We hope this stays forever,” Oliverio said. “Our No. 1 goal is to keep this fund as long as we can.”

The fund helps patients with costs for medicine, food, medical bills, home care, rides to the hospital and other necessities.

Patients need to submit an application to a trust board member to be considered for aid. The board reviews the application and visits the patient to determine individual needs.

The board consists of representatives from two Zelienople Lutheran churches, a NexTier Bank official, the borough council president and the mayor. The trust money is kept at NexTier Bank.

Last year, the fund helped one resident suffering from leukemia.

Applicants must live in the borough and experience financial hardships.

“If there are people out there who need help, don’t be shy,” Oliverio said. “We’re well-satisfied with the people we have been able to help.”

For information, contact Oliverio at 724-452-8685.