BRATTLEBORO — The United Way of Windham County recently renewed its funding grants to 19 local agencies, for a six-month funding period.
“We are so proud of the work these agencies do in our community, and we are grateful for the generosity of United Way donors who ensure we can offer this level of support,” said United Way of Windham County Executive Director Carmen Derby.
“We are truly grateful to be recipients of United Way funding,” said Morningside Shelter Executive Director Paul Capcara. “In light of the continuing economic downturn and growing number of families and individuals who rely on us in times of crisis, ongoing support from the United Way of Windham County is crucial to our organization. For many years, Morningside Shelter has been the largest recipient of United Way funding locally; this successful partnership has allowed us to continue to be an important part of the community's social safety net.”
As these grants were awarded, United Way of Windham County's annual community campaign is currently underway. To date, United Way has raised more than 60 percent of its $560,000 campaign goal through employee campaigns at local businesses and through individual gifts.
“We are hopeful that we'll reach our goal by the end of February,” said Derby as she noted the campaign had seen a lull in the past few weeks. “As the days get colder and the snow starts to fall, a lot of people are reminded of folks in the community who are struggling. It's a time when people are inspired to invest in the important work being done by United Way and our partners.”
The organizations funded by United Way of Windham County have a variety of important focuses, ranging from food and shelter to health and education.
“Computer literacy is a must in today's work world. The United Way of Windham County grant to Vermont Adult Learning (VAL) allows individuals who have low incomes to take free computer classes at VAL. Gaining basic computer skills helps open doors to better job opportunities,” said Mary Ide, Vermont Adult Learning's Regional Manager.
In addition to Vermont Adult Learning and Morningside Shelter, United Way also awarded grants to AIDS Project of Southern Vermont, Boys & Girls Club of Brattleboro, Brattleboro Area Drop In Center, Brattleboro Area Hospice, Council on Aging for Southern Vermont, Inc., Families First, Health Care and Rehabilitation Services, Our Place Drop In Center, Parks Place Community Resource Center, Prevent Child Abuse Vermont, Green Mountain RSVP, SEVCA, The Gathering Place, Vermont Adult Learning, Visiting Nurses Association & Hospice of Vermont & New Hampshire, Windham Housing Trust, and Youth Services.
To make a donation or pledge to United Way of Windham County contact the office at United Way, 28 Vernon St., Suite 312, Brattleboro, VT 05301, 802-257-4011, ext. 112, or e-mail [email protected].
Through its community grant awards and programs, United Way of Windham County currently serves 19,500 people in Windham County. Visit www.unitedwaywindham.org for more information.