United Way reaches 54 percent of its goal

GAINESVILLE - It was time for a progress report Tuesday morning in downtown Gainesville on the current United Way campaign.

"Midway through our campaign, we’ve reached 54 percent of our goal of $1.87-million,"Campaign chair Kelly Mathis Lee said.

United Way president Jackie Wallace said that was a real success story considering the current recession economy, but the campaign is not over yet.

"We've got another 46 percent to get and it's going to take the effort of the entire community to be successful," Wallace said.

Wallace added United Way expects to reach its goal inspite of the economy because people want to give as much as they can.
Lee shared United Way success stories, presented through demonstrations, to show the impact its partner agencies have on the community.

Hamilton State Bank, Flowery Branch High School, and Cargill Industries were cited as contributors that have stepped up their efforts and donations.
Business and Civic leaders crowded into Grove Street Station, a former railroad warehouse in Gainesville's Midtown, during a heavy morning rain to watch the demonstrations exhibiting the impact of United Way dollars.

The Salvation Army, Alliance for Literacy, Boys and Girls Clubs and Good News Clinics stressed the importance of United Way in supporting their service to clients year around.