United Way restarts campaign

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By Mark Guydish [email protected] Reporter
WILKES-BARRE — A fund drive to help local people in need that got derailed when the September rains swelled the ranks of the needy is back on track. United Way of Wyoming Valley suspended its annual community campaign that began in September to put its resources toward helping flood victims, but has re-launched the fundraising this month.

“This is going to be a tough year, and there are lots of people in the Wyoming Valley who could really use help,” Vice President of Resource Development and Strategic Planning Kristen Huff said. “A donation to the United Way of Wyoming Valley will help us make a difference.”
The annual community campaign is the organization’s biggest fundraiser, bringing in more than $4 million last year. The money goes toward 46 area programs run by 27 non-profit agencies. Last year, that money helped more than 30,000 people in the Wyoming Valley.
A needs assessment by the United Way showed several problems merit high priority in Luzerne County: Abuse prevention and victim assistance; helping the more than 40,000 people in Luzerne County living in poverty get basics such as shelter and food; and helping provide affordable quality child care for more than 10,000 children under age 5 living in low-income households.
This year marks the 90th anniversary of United Way of Wyoming Valley. This is the first time since 1995 that the drive is being held without David Lee at the helm as executive director. Lee retired without explanation in May, and Norene Bradshaw is serving as interim executive director while a nationwide search for a replacement continues.
Huff conceded the economic downturn of the last two years has had an impact on the ability to raise money. One reason: The United Way relies in part on contributions made through payroll deductions at work. The economic downturn and resulting high unemployment are a double whammy. More unemployed people means greater need for United Way support, yet fewer people working means fewer donating through their workplace.
“That’s why it’s so important to donate this year,” Huff said. “If you could give even one dollar a week, it helps.”