United Way of Milton Reaches 51% Mark!  Still work to be done.

The 2011 United Way of Milton campaign has reached the 51% mark towards its goal of raising $660,171.  The campaign kicked off in September and wraps up at the end of December.

“The good news is that we’ve passed the half-way point,” commented Kate Williamson, CEO, United Way of Milton. “But that means we still have a long way to go!  We continue to need individuals, families and businesses to come forward with donations, big and small, because every dollar counts!  As our community grows, more and more people need to access services and the demand is causing waitlists.”

The new “LIVE UNITED” campaign has been embraced by many Milton residents and businesses.  There are many compelling stories about local families and how their lives have been impacted by programs funded by United Way of Milton agencies.  Their stories have been told online at the new www.miltonunitedway.ca website.  Research has shown that one in nine Milton residents has benefited from United Way funded services.

“Many people are just realizing that their neighbours, friends and family are using these services, as they raise their children, cope with illness or death, move here from another country or help an aging parent,” stated Ms. Williamson.  “This year United Way of Milton provided essential funding to 43 programs managed by 27 agencies here in Milton.”

United Way of Milton counts on support from a variety of sources including individuals and families who make donations or choose to designate their payroll deductions back to their home community.  Payroll designations are significant since many people work out of town and don’t realize they have the option to have their donations returned to their home town to benefit Milton social services.

“We really appreciate all the individuals, businesses and employee groups who have stepped up this year to show they know how to “LIVE UNITED”, stated Campaign Chair Leslie McLaren.  “Our volunteers and staff are still out there meeting with companies and getting them on board with the campaign.  It is very encouraging but there is still a lot of work to be done!”