By Lookout Staff

December 1, 2010 -- That might have only been a quarter you just dropped into the dolphin sculpture that seems to leap out of the ground on Third Street Promenade, but it all adds up.

Bayside's Dolphin Change Program was set up in 1993 to give residents an opportunity to help the homeless without giving money directly to panhandlers. The loose change has added up to more than $156,500.

The money collected goes to non-profit social service agencies that help the homeless get a new lease on life. It has helped Chrysalis find jobs for the homeless, Turning Point get people off the streets and Step Up on Second care for those who suffer from mental illness.

"We're delighted to partner with local social service agencies to help the less fortunate in our community," said Kathleen Rawson, CEO of the Bayside District Corporation. "The Dolphin program is a responsible alternative to direct giving."

Although there is little money to market the program, Downtown's Ambassadors are spreading the word on the street, Bayside officials said.

"People are giving generously," Rawson said. "We never stop people from giving directly (to the homeless) but by doing so, you're encouraging people to stay on the street. It's important to let people know there's an alternative."

Dolphins were chosen as the key element of the program, because of their sensitive, giving and intuitive nature and because Santa Monica is a seaside community. The dolphins were sculpted by internationally acclaimed naturalist sculptor Peter Erlich.

Similar dolphin banks are located at the Santa Monica Pier, Main Street and the Canyon Charter School.

The money collected this year was awarded to social service agencies at the Westside Shelter & Homeless Coalition's 15th annual Celebrating Success breakfast October 29 at the Fairmont Miramar Hotel Downtown.

"We're delighted to partner with local social service agencies to help the less fortunate in our community. The Dolphin program is a responsible alternative to direct giving."
     Kathleen Rawson, CEO
     Bayside District Corporation