UNITED WAY ACHIEVES THREE-FOURTHS OF GOAL

The Area Wide United Way has topped three-quarters of its goal to raise $477,000.

On Thursday, officials reported that $370,000 has been raised, 78 percent of the goal.

The annual campaign raises money to benefit 26 local social service agencies.

Dorothy Klein, executive director of the United Way, said thousands more dollars in contributions are in the works but have not been turned in to the United Way office yet.

The campaign began Sept. 2. United Way President Bob Robins said donations are a bit behind schedule at this point.

"People may have cut back a little bit this year, but the need for an increase is even greater. The need for services from the local agencies is greater," Robins said. "We encourage everyone to give all they can."

Robins said the campaign has now entered the wrap-up phase.

"There are a few people who may not have been contacted yet," he said. "If they haven't been contacted, they will, or they can contact us."

At the end of this wrap-up phase, Robins said, the United Way Board of Directors will allocate money to each of the 26 agencies who receive money from the organization.

"We don't like to cut anything for any of the agencies," he said. "That's why it's so important that people give. The United Way is one of the best charitable dollars a person can give. The money goes to people in our local area."

Klein said local agencies are receiving more calls for help than in past years. This past year, over 8,400 families and individuals were provided food, shelter, energy assistance and medical service through United Way agencies.

In addition, 620 individuals received residential and outpatient detoxification help.

Youth agencies supported through the United Way provided leadership training for 11,840 boys and girls. Another 7,500 people were trained in CPR, first aid and water safety.

Contributions can be mailed to P.O. Box 562, Cape Girardeau, Mo. 63702-0562.