Marion County United Way extends capital campaign
Local needs grow
A dozen agencies were represented Friday at the Interagency meeting in Hillsboro.
Lori Bebermeyer, director of Marion County United Way, gave a presentation. She said the capital campaign has been extended to December to allow time for more contributions.
"Based on the response to the hurricanes, I know Marion County has givers," she said.
United Way of Marion County has a nine-member board. An allocations committee reviews applications for funds and decides how to distribute the money collected.
"I understand it's quite an eye-opener to see the needs right in front of you," Beberymeyer said.
She encouraged those in attendance to "spread the word" that all money given to United Way of Marion County will be used for local needs.
"The needs are staggering," Robert Carlton commented. "We respond to major disasters when there are little disasters going on every day in Marion County."
"We need individuals who will step up and contribute," Bebermeyer added.
Marion County United Way is an affiliate of Harvey County United Way.
Flex Funds
Chuck Maggard, case worker for Prairie View, reported on the distribution of Flex Funds in Marion County. Flex Funds are for special one-time needs of working class people.
Of the $3,000 received July 1 at the beginning of the fiscal year, $2,147 has been spent. The 16 requests received were for 26 adults and 37 children. Payments included 12 to utility providers, two to landlords, one for propane, and one car payment.
Maggard said with winter months coming on, emergency needs are sure to increase and be far more than the $852 remaining. A grant has been written to seek more money for the remainder of the fiscal year.
