The newly constructed Carbon County Assistance Office along the Sgt. Stanley Hoffman Blvd. in Lehighton was dedicated.

The 10,680-square-foot building is situated on a 2-acre parcel off the bypass, having 13 intake units and 24 ongoing work stations. Thirty-two people were employed at the facility at the time with Pat Sasserath having been the office's executive director.The office provides cash assistance to eligible people, assists Medicaid recipients, provides food stamps and assists applicants under the fuel assistance program.State Rep. Keith McCall, speaking at the ceremony, said employees there "reach out with love and concern to help others in need."