The Dallas County Commission is increasing its financial support to families who can’t afford to bury their loved ones.

The Dallas County Commission made a unanimous decision Monday to pay up to $500 toward indigent burials. Before the vote, the commission paid up to $40.

“It’s embarrassing to tell someone that we can help you all. And when they ask how much, say $40,” Probate Judge Kim Ballard said.

The Dallas County Commission of the early 1900s adopted legislation that would allow the commission to provide $40 to indigent burials. With the economy much different than it was in the 1900s, Ballard said he feels the Monday change is appropriate.

“Bear in mind that in the early 1900s, $40 would go a long way. I think it was Commissioner Williams that said $40 won’t buy a neck tie now, and he’s about right on that,” Ballard said.

After doing some research, Ballard learned that surrounding counties pay a little more than $500 and others pay a little less, but all pay about that amount.

Therefore, he recommended the commission be willing to pay up to $500.

Ballard said he could only recall about two to three indigent burials being reported to the commission each year.

Commissioner Roy Moore mentioned that the commission7considered increasing the amount before, and he appreciated Ballard remembering to make an official recommendation to do so.

Commissioner Curtis Williams followed with a few comments of his own on the matter.

“Judge, I think it’s a wonderful,” Williams said. “I’m just elated that you mentioned it and sorry that we had not done it before.”

Commissioner Larry Nickles suggested the commission should take extra precaution when ensuring that the money goes to families that are truly in need of it.

He mentioned the commissioner of the ward where the particular family requesting financial assistant resides should be responsible for ensuring that the need is legit.

“I think it would benefit us to know a little background to keep us from getting hustled,” Nickles said.

Ballard agreed with his suggestion and informed him that the commission would make sure the family receiving the money is eligible.