SIDNEY — As the Shelby County United Way launches their 64th annual campaign with the theme, The Spirit of Generosity, the organization want to recognize and thank the partner agencies that not only served, but met the community’s needs in a challenging 2020.
The 27 partner agencies served over 18,000 clients last year, an increase of 1,000 clients from 2019. Many had to modify their operation during the pandemic to serve clients. Modifications included carry out meals, curb side pick up for food distribution, virtual communication and porch home visits. Facilities that operate 24 hours a day, such as New Choices domestic violence shelter, Clear Creek Farm Group Home, Samaritan Works sober living homes, and the Sheriff’s STAR House all remained open with additional sanitation procedures. Food insecurity, victimization, and domestic violence needs increased in 2020.
“2020 proved to be a challenging annual campaign. We were thrilled and humbled that we raised $1,250,000 during the difficult year. That said, the campaign was off 8% from 2019. Using reserves, the board increased the annual investment to agencies and programs,” said Scott Barr, Shelby County United Way president and CEO.
In December, the board awarded partner agency status to the new Mercy Mission House Emergency Shelter.
Barr continues, “We will need to have a bounce back year with the addition of a new partner agency as we want to keep our annual commitment to the agencies consistent.”
The Shelby County United Way is a local 501c3 non-profit organization that has earned the highest rating from Charity Navigator eight out of the past nine years. Monies raised in the annual campaign are invested locally under the leadership and direction of our local volunteer Board of Directors and Community Allocation Volunteers. Through the first week of the campaign the campaign balance is $165,460.
Donors can make payroll contributions with participating employers or make a one time or reoccurring donation by visiting www.shelbycountyunitedway.org or text SHELBY to 40403. Checks can be made payable to Shelby County United Way and mailed to P.O. Box 751, Sidney.
