SIDNEY — “The reach of impact from United Way Programming is county wide” said Director Scott Barr. “All communities in Shelby County have had residents benefit from United Way programming.”

Senior programming promotes a healthy and active lifestyle and enables seniors to remain independent and in the home longer. Programming is there for victims of crime, including free therapy services, safe shelter and support for those inflicted by domestic violence, substance abuse programming, and assistance and shelter for tragedies such as home fires, power outages and flooding.

Many youth programs are supported with United Way funding, including two child development centers, three afterschool programs, a wraparound case management and counseling program for both the referred child and their family, mentoring programs, and traditional scouting. Families benefit with food assistance programs, such as hot meals and emergency food pantry items and family counseling programs.

Health programming includes supporting the free health clinic, a center for those facing mental health challenges, social and education programming for residents with disabilities, and programming and therapy for residents with a brain related injury, stroke or autism.

The Shelby County United Way is a local 501 c 3 charitable organization earning a four star rating, the highest rating, from Charily Navigator. Funding decisions are made locally by both the board of directors and community leaders and volunteers during the annual allocation process. Shelby County United Way does not fund and has never funded Planned Parenthood. Contact the Shelby County United Way for more information, learn how to volunteer, or make a gift.

Through week 7 of the campaign, $484,500 has been raised towards the goal of $1,325,000.