Sequim Gazette

The United Way of Clallam County annual fund drive is inching its way up to its $1 million goal. This week, the total reached $360,000 received from more than 1,400 donors. Jody Moss, executive director, said she recognizes that some community members may not be able to give what they would like because of the past two years of a bad economy.

At the same time the agency also has heard serious concerns from some of its 25 partner agencies, which are getting more requests for help than ever before. Many people who never have been unemployed before are seeking help for the first time.

State and some local funds for health and human services have been severely reduced and many fear that traditional sources of social service funding may not be restored in the future. During challenging economic times, it is especially important to seek local support for maintaining a strong safety net, Moss said.

A mailer is being delivered to all residents and businesses in Clallam County.

“The mailer is not a request for a second gift but a way to reach people who don’t give through a workplace, who are new to the community or work at home,” Moss said.

“Last year local community members donated $953,000 to help people struggling in our communities.

With low overhead and broad reach, United Way provides one of the best and easiest ways to support local community members in recovery. We want to give everyone in the county the opportunity to help their friends and neighbors here at home with a donation to United Way — this is the way all community members can LIVE United.”

Dick Ecker, from Battelle Marine Research and 2010 president of the United Way board of directors notes, “United Way is a locally run organization that supports 25 local partner agencies year-round that provide a strong safety net for families, children and adults in our community. United Way agencies and Community Solutions Initiatives, including literacy, access to health care, the 2-1-1 help line, are helping many families, youth and children to lead safer and healthier lives. We are also excited to be kicking off a new education initiative based on the Listening to Community so that all children start life with a solid foundation for success.”

“We hope that community members who have not yet sent in their donations will remember to do so,” said Dan McKeen, Port Angeles fire chief and chairman of this year’s campaign.

“Many people in our community are struggling just to get by. We know that this is a community of generous givers and we believe that there are many people who want to support their friends and neighbors in need,” said McKeen. “Every contribution, whether $10 or $1,000, is important. If everyone in Clallam County sent in a donation, imagine the good we can do right here at home.”

There are many options for giving to United Way: payroll deduction, check, credit card, PayPal, direct billing, IRA distribution or stock transfer. All donations are tax deductible. For more information on making a donation, contact the United Way office at 457-3011 or visit www.unitedwayclallam.org.