On Monday, the Johnston County Council on Aging, Harbor Inc., the Clayton Chamber of Commerce and the Johnston County Partnership for Children came before the council to ask for money. In his proposed budget, Town Manager Steve Biggs has set aside about $70,000 for nonprofit groups.

The Council on Aging is seeking $8,500 from the town. Rising costs, including fuel and food for seniors, have taken a toll on the agency’s budget, said Donna Creech, executive director. The proposed budget sets aside $8,000 for the Council on Aging.

The Partnership for Children is seeking $15,000, while the proposed but includes $9,000 for the agency. A large sum of the request would go to operating a new office on N.C. 42 West.

The Clayton Chamber of Commerce wants $9,000 to continue its community projects, including the Harvest Festival, Christmas parade, Eggs & Issues breakfast and Diamond Dip. The proposed budget sets aside $6,500 for the chamber.

Harbor Inc., which assists victims of rape and domestic violence, is seeking $5,000. The proposed budget does not reserve any money for Harbor, but last year, the town set aside money for the organization. Harbor served 2,104 domestic-violence victims in Johnston County last year. It also operates resale shops in Clayton and Smithfield to provide clothing for eligible families at no cost.

The other organizations included in the proposed budget are the Clayton Historical Association, $3,500; Johnston Memorial hospice facility, $17,000; grants for the arts, $25,000; the Clayton SPCA, $4,000; and economic-development support, $5,991.

The council is expected to vote on the budget June 2.