By By Janet Little Cooper
United Fund is well on its way in the organizations annual drive to raise funds that help supplement several agencies in Atmore and Escambia County.
Without funding from the United Fund these local agencies would not be able to provide the assistance and benefits they offer people in need. Agencies such as the American Red Cross and Christian Care Ministries submit a request for financial assistance each year during the month of July. A determination of how much money each agency receives is made based on how much money is raised.
With that in mind, the United Fund is asking for your help. Whether you are a local business owner, employee of a local business or just simply a resident, your help is needed according to United Fund president Susan Smith.
"At this time we have approximately 40 percent of our goal pledged," Smith said. "But the difference in having the money pledged and the money in hand is substantial. I can't really say that the 40 percent is an accurate account toward our $75k goal. We are not quite half way there yet."
The money that is raised by the United Fund stays in Atmore and the surrounding area making the drive even more worthwhile for area residents to invest in.
"We are asking people to dig deep and give generously this year," Smith said. "All the money raised will stay in town to help our local community. I feel that in years past people were in the quote on quote 'giving mood' due to the disaster our area had seen in hurricanes and such. But we tend to get lax and feel like there is not a need anymore."
Smith said that she receives phone calls on a daily basis for someone who has to be referred to one of the agencies the United Fund helps support.
"There is a constant need of replenishing the financial resources for these agencies," Smith said. "So many things happen in this time of the year specifically, but most of the agencies have reported an influx throughout the year as a whole. We don't have to sustain a disaster for the agencies to need our help."
This year's drive to reach $75k requires a joint effort according to Smith.
"It is really going to take a joint effort of the UF board and the community to make it happen," Smith said. "This drive is a way for people to give back to their community. It is really a never ending circle of giving."
Efforts are still being made to contact businesses and individuals for contributions. If you are interested in contributing to the United Fund you can contact Susan Smith at 368-4860 or Cathy McKinley at 368-5234.