United Way/Red Cross Campaign expects
to raise more than $145,000 for community

Volunteers for United Way of Eastern Orleans believe that the annual United Way/Red Cross Campaign expects to raise $145,672, representing 97 percent of its $151,500 goal. Officials noted that this projection includes outstanding contributions of longtime supporters and results from area school districts, both of which are critical to the final figure. Campaign organizers note that a few employee campaigns are still underway and remain hopeful that the final figure will significantly increase.

United Way is a primary funding source for many area health and human care organizations. A reduction in funding dollars would greatly impact the ability of human care organizations to continue providing services to those in need. United Way-funded services and programs help keep children safe, help teens make smart choices, strengthen families, help the elderly, and help those with disabilities live productive lives. United Way allocation committee volunteers will meet to review funding needs and discuss recommendations based on the campaign's final results.

United Way leadership state that although the community campaign has concluded, health and human care needs must be met. Officials note that contributions to this year's campaign will continue to be accepted and individuals interested in making a donation are asked to call the United Way Office at 585-589-6455.

"It was a tough campaign but the residents of Eastern Orleans continue to give their support generously to help those in need," said Fran and Ray Lissow, owners of Lissow Development, and United Way Campaign Chairs. "In the final days of the appeal, we were very concerned that we might not reach the goal, so we asked everyone to dig a little deeper."

The special events that campaign fundraisers held during the year were also highlighted:

  • Eastern Orleans United Way's third annual 5K Race/Walk held in August raised $473 with nearly 60 participants.
  • The annual VanHungerford Memorial Golf Outing sponsored by Orleans Manufacturing Council to benefit the United Ways of Eastern and Western Orleans County, held in August, raised $1,500 for the Eastern Orleans campaign.
  • "Spare Change" - the following area companies rallied together and raised more than $300 to help United Way close the gap: Apollo Restaurant, Arnolds Auto Parts, Brown's Berry Patch, Dale's Market, Fischer's News Room, Fleet Banks, Golden Comb, Gotta Dance, Hair Fantasy, Hair Gallery, HSBC (Holley and Albion), Kafana Cafe', Pawlak's Save-A-Lot, Sassy Cuts, Sports Plus Graphics, Uncle Sals, Village House, Village Inn and Watts Farm Market.