Charles Porter, Judy Porter and granddaughter, Brooke Martin, 8, check out the items put up for silent auction Saturday at the Iron City Ministries annual fundraiser. More than $9,000 was raised overall. Members and organizers of Iron City Ministries had no monetary goal in mind at the start of their 7th annual fundraising auction Saturday.

“With the economy the way it is, we’re just pleased to see people come out for a good cause,” said Melissa Green, executive director.

But there was no doubt, too, that every penny earned at the ministries’ biggest fundraiser of the year would not only count but be appreciated. With the economy the way it is, Green relayed, the organization has more people to help than ever before.

Among its many programs, the faith-based charity helps people pay for necessities such as food, utilities and medicine. Its services are often needed by low-income seniors, families and single parents.

The homemade cakes were a popular item, with some being sold for nearly $100. Tough economic times have put an even greater strain on those in need of assistance and also increased their numbers.

“We’re seeing anywhere from 30 to 35 new families come to us for help (each week),” Green said.

And while the economic downturn is being measured on a national level, Green said she’s noticed the effects mostly in the past four months. Many of the new people and families seeking financial help from the ministry are doing so because of lost jobs or reduced hours at work.

To ensure that limited resources get in the right hands, Green said Iron City Ministries has a stringent screening process.

The event held Saturday included both a silent auction and a live auction. Overall, it raised more than $9,000 — a little less than last year — but some additional money was expected to be raised as some extra donations and sponsorships arrive.

During the silent auction, bidders simply placed their bidding number and bids on a sheet of paper next to the item up for auction. The auction items were donated by numerous local companies and individuals. They ranged from household products like a new ceiling fan and Christmas decorations to original artwork, gift certificates for restaurants or travel and autographed sports memorabilia.

And, of course, the live auction included the event’s traditional homemade cakes.

This year, the pastors of the churches that contribute to the ministries’ operations were each asked to auction off a cake on behalf of their church. As typical, bidding on the cakes far exceeded typical values, as some cakes sold for almost $100.

Rev. Don Boshell of St. John’s United Methodist Church and Sardis United Methodist Church walked around the auction greeting and mingling with almost everyone who entered.

Just like Iron City Ministries itself, Boshell said he has seen the effects of the economic downturn at his churches, where people have been coming in increasing numbers looking for help.

Reflecting on what the Iron City Ministries means to Cherokee County, he said, “We would be in a lot of hurt without them.”

While based in Blacksburg and supported by Blacksburg-area churches, the Iron City Ministries’ services are made available countywide.