United Way Needs Your Help

United Way of San Juan County has launched its 2005-06 campaign. Residents have received a brochure that provides a comprehensive overview of supported agencies, businesses are being asked to encourage workplace giving, and United Way Helping Here signs are visible outside of program offices. The organization is off to a great start but it has a long way to go.

As a result of the generous support of islanders, more than 30 county-wide programs that provide essential services for individuals and families currently receive funding. Included are emergency housing assistance, pre-school education, mental health counseling, mentoring programs and after-school study groups. These and other programs benefit a wide array of island residents, from toddlers to teens to the terminally ill. United Way helps provide a true community safety net.

Unfortunately, the gap between available funding and program needs continues to grow. This past year was the first year that United Way was not able to increase the size of its grants or the number of programs funded. Its grants provided less than 50 percent of the amounts requested. Support of these programs is critical to their long term success.

Please make an investment in the work of these important local programs that are helping the people in our islands who need it the most. If you are an employer, contact United Way to develop a Workplace Giving Program and consider making a corporate donation. If you are an individual, please give as generously as you possibly can.

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