Giving Back With United Way
December 19, 2011
This year, Gallins Foods once again participated in United Way's fundraising efforts to promote better living across the Nation. United Way is an organization that has become well-known for their continual efforts to help those in need. Whether through individual or corporate contributions, many have helped by donating to the cause. While most people acknowledge the positive impact made by United Way, they rarely look deep enough to see exactly how donated funds are used. The following examples show how United Way has helped light the way in three significant areas:
Education:
"Some 60% of the low-income children in Chattanooga, Tennessee were entering school without critical skills. In response, United Way of Greater Chattanooga created a public awareness campaign, a parent help line and a one-stop resource center, and engaged 50 community partners to provide information and hands-on help in poor neighborhoods. Parents lacked literacy skills to read to their children, so the partners created 23 mini-libraries and a mobile Reading Van. Seven years later, 30% more at-risk children are developmentally on track - and coming to school ready to succeed." -www.liveunited.org
Financial Security:
"Safe, stable, affordable housing is a critical component of family financial stability. Using the Housing First model, United Way of Massachusetts Bay and Merrimack Valley has placed more than 1,000 families in permanent housing, saving the Commonwealth an estimated $3.6 million in shelter costs and associated expenses. Seventy-seven percent of those families were stable three years after increasing their income, completing financial education and establishing a working budget." -www.liveunited.org
Healthy Living:
With 25 million children in America alone being overweight or obese, it is easy to see why Healthy Living is one of United Way's three areas of focus. Donated funds have had an impact on Healthy Living through United Way by providing numerous playgrounds and safe areas that give children a place to play in their communities while encouraging them to use their bodies and develop strength.
These examples are just a sampling of all that United Way has accomplished through individual and corporate donations. For more information about United Way and to learn how you can participate, visit liveunited.org.