The MORE
Time Dollar Exchange/MTDE is a service barter system which helps meet the
basic needs of neighbors. It is a two-way flow of help that brings neighbors together so they can
preserve scarce cash and help one another. MTDE embodies two core
Grace Hill philosophies:
1. Residents
in disadvantages areas possess a wealth of untapped talents.
2. Neighbors
can effectively help one another meet their own needs.
A neighbor giving an hour of
help earns a "time dollar" while the neighbor receiving help
pays a "time dollar". The system allows neighbors to both
give and receive help and keep track of their involvement via a computer
network. During
1998, 10,392 providers and 17,907 consumers completed over 21,000
exchanges generating over $72,000 time dollars. Services range from
transportation to household chores to childcare. If neighbors had to
hire others to provide these services, they would - more than likely - pay
above minimum wage. However, if we apply a simple $6 hourly rate for
these services, over $432,000 in wealth was preserved in the
neighborhoods!
In
addition to using Time Dollars to trade services, neighbors can also use
their time dollars in MORE Time Dollar Stores. To view shop hours at
various neighborhood MORE Time Dollar Stores go to the Neighborhood
Centers page and select the desired neighborhood. These stores
increase the "buying power" of neighbors by allowing them to
obtain items not available through food stamps. The biggest
challenge continues to be keeping the stores stocked with needed
items. Over the Christmas months, the stores are specially stocked
with toys so that parents can be sure they have gifts for their
children.
