Orting Senior Center is trying to raise money to fill a large whole in its budget after losing government funding.

Pierce County officials in 2023 didn’t award a grant that in past years has covered the center’s operational costs such as utilities and staff. Some of that has been replaced county funding for the center’s role as a mealsite, but more is needed “to keep our operations going,” said Staci Guirsch, the center’s director.

An online drive through gofundme.com has a goal of raising $125,000, according to Guirsch.

In an online post, Guirsch thanked “everyone who has donated and shared our story. The support given for the seniors in Orting is amazing. We couldn’t do what we do without you.”