$157,658 invested locally in 2020, United Way says

Monday, December 7, 2020

Thanks to the generosity of donors and a Lilly Endowment grant, United Way of Putnam County has reported that its total community investment for 2020 has topped $157,658.

Executive Director Chris Flegal made the announcement in a recent press release and in the organization’s newsletter for this month. He emphasized how this kind of commitment impacts Putnam County families most in need.

“This is more than a number; these are lives being changed for the better right here in our community,” said United Way board member Tyler Cox.

The organization has been focused on the county’s response, recovery and then revitalization as it comes through the pandemic. This means investing in both immediate and long-term needs.

“The United Way fights for the health, education and financial stability of families struggling most in Putnam County,” said Flegal. “As COVID-19 continues to rage on, damaging our health and economic infrastructure, the United Way continues to focus on the kind of impact that supports children and adults through these challenging times.”

United Way’s Basic Needs Fund provides hundreds of families with basic needs like food, shelter, clothing, transportation, rent/utility assistance and mental/physical health support. Its Next Generation Fund provides reading programs to promote learning and well-being with Putnam County kindergarteners. The Family Opportunities Fund allows low-income families the ability to take control of their financial future through programs that promote financial stability and economic mobility.

The newsletter notes that United Way, through a partnership with the Putnam County Pantry Coalition and the Putnam County Community Foundation, has invested $40,000 in local food pantries since March.

Also noted is the financial support of United Way’s COVID-19 Community Relief Fund, established in March and driven by community donations. The newsletter notes that about $130,000 has been invested from this fund since March, with a further commitment of $300,000 over the next two years.

A partnership between United Way and Coalition 360, a care network of local nonprofits, has also provided $40,000 in basic need support to more than 435 families in Putnam County since April.

“It’s about solving problems to our community’s toughest challenges so that we create more than just a safety net, but create opportunities for meaningful change in the lives of people hurting the most,” Flegal added.

Those who wish to donate to United Way of Putnam County may do so at https://www.unitedwayofputnamcounty.org/donate/.

Questions may be directed to the United Way of Putnam County’s office at 653-5638.

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