United Way, Red Cross fundraising

The United Way of Putnam County has concluded their corporate phase with more than 20 percent of their goal met. At the same time the American Red Cross kicked off their fundraising campaign for the Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund.

The Red Cross hopes to raise at least $100 million dollars by the end of the 2008 calendar year. The Wabash Valley Chapter has a goal of $63,000. The United Way of Putnam County is hoping to get $145,000 in this year's campaign.

According to David English, Putnam County United Way Director, "a dollar is worth one gram to the organization. We hope to gather 454 grams of dollar bills to equal 319.38 pounds. If we can do that, it will get us to our 2008 goal of $145,000."

English did express some concern that at the same time the annual United Way campaign is running the American Red Cross Disaster Relief campaign kicked off.

"We are aware of their campaign and support it," said English.

He received a letter from Wabash Valley Red Cross Executive Director Carol Stevens explaining their strategy and concern for launching their campaign in the midst of the United Way's efforts.

The two organizations have a statement of understanding supporting each other's campaigns.

Since 2001 no Putnam County corporations have given $1,000 or more to the Disaster Relief Fund. Part of the Red Cross campaign is to now recruit funds from these corporations.

The United Way supports numerous agencies including the American Red Cross, Area 7 Agency on Aging, A-Way Home Shelter, Hope Haven Horse Farm, Johnson Nichols Health Clinic, Mental Health America and Opportunity Housing.

"I know we can impact the community in a very positive way. The United Way has the support of so many people and organizations," said English.

There are numerous ways to donate to the United Way. Persons can choose payroll deduction, pay by check, pay quarterly or in one lump sum.

Near the end of October the Banner Graphic, along with the United Way of Putnam County will have an advertisement running weekly showing an update on contributions collected.

According to Stevens, Putnam County families received $14,720 in the past two years, from the Red Cross Disaster Relief fund. This money went to families who lost their homes in fires.

Ginger Scott, President of the Putnam County Chapter of the Red Cross was quick to acknowledge that her group is one of the agencies receiving funds from the United Way.

"We disperse disaster funds for families in need in any natural event like floods and tornadoes. It just happens that in the last year we have only had families qualify for funds who have had their homes destroyed in fires," said Scott.

For more information about the agency or to make a donation to the Putnam County United Way contact English at 653-5638 or e-mail him at unitedway@airhop.com.

To donate to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund contact the Wabash Valley Chapter at (812) 232-3393 or go to www.redcross.org.