News
United Appeal Emphasizes Importance Of Donations For This Year
By: Merle Tilk
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Although the economy seems to be recovering there is still great need for basic necessities for many people in the Athens area.
Housing, food and health are three of the most fundamental needs which have taken a big hit as the economy faltered.
United Appeal has worked for more than 50 years to fill these gaps. With its "United 2 Give, United 2 Help" campaign, which annually starts in October, they raise money for different social organizations who help people in need throughout Athens County.
One of its biggest donators is Ohio University. United Appeal hopes that Ohio University employees collectively contribute $50,000 before Oct. 2014.
Pam Harvey, the executive director of United Appeal for Athens County, said donations are very urgent this year.
“This year the Athens County Food Pantry says their requests for food continue to rise, the Habitat for Humanity Services in Athens County are continuing to try to build more houses for people. Different funding have been cut from different sources for some of our mental health services, for some of our hospices and health care services," Harvey said.
According to Harvey these services rely more and more on aid through United Appeal, which helps them to do their work throughout the year.
Ohio University employees can choose to donate a portion of their paycheck or make a one-time gift. To donate they just need to fill out a pledge card that comes to their campus mail or they can donate online.