Central Va. United Way halfway to $4 million goal

By Alicia Petska

Published: November 19, 2008

At the halfway point of its yearly fundraising campaign, the United Way has raised half its goal of $4 million.

“Folks digging into their pockets are digging a little deeper,” said campaign chairman Bob Chapman. “We’re seeing an increase in our giving units, and I think that really speaks to the people of this community.”

The United Way of Central Virginia announced its midpoint totals Wednesday during a campaign “pep rally” at the City View by the James banquet hall on the top floor of the Bank of the James building downtown.

Volunteers have raised $1.8 million in pledges so far, putting the charity on track to meet its final goal when the donation drive ends in February.

The United Way distributes funding to 28 partner agencies in Lynchburg and its surrounding counties. Benefiting groups include the YMCA, Meals on Wheels and the Salvation Army.

This year, anticipating the deteriorating economy would generate greater need, fundraisers bumped up their usual goal by about $500,000.

“We’re really in challenging times,” said United Way president and CEO Marie Martin. “But we also have an opportunity to step forward and really help our community.”

The United Way noted aid requests are now coming in from median-income households that never before had to seek financial assistance. Requests for housing assistance and emergency shelter, in particular, are on the rise, officials said.

“We’re really seeing the need come bubbling up to the top in those areas,” said Chapman, president of the Bank of the James.

The United Way is still seeking donations. Contributors can give through their workplace campaign or by contacting the charity directly at (434) 846-8467 or http://www.unitedwaycv.org.

“If everybody gives a little bit,” said Martin, “we’ll get to our goal.”