United Way extends annual campaign

United Way of Eastern New Mexico is razor close to making its annual campaign goal. In hopes of achieving that goal, the campaign has been extended, according to a United Way of Eastern New Mexico press release.

The 2006-2007 United Way Annual Campaign will last until Jan. 19, the release said.

“UWENM leaders hope that more time will produce more resources for programs that help families in crisis, strengthen youth and families, increase self-sufficiency, and put citizens to work,” the release reads.

To date, $482,834 has been donated or pledged to the 2006-2007 drive. That’s 92 percent of the $525,000 dual-county goal. In Curry, $422,318 has been raised to date; in Roosevelt, $60,515 has been raised to date, the release reads.

Several highlights have characterized the campaign, according to the release. The city of Clovis donated a record-breaking $24,085 and Cargill Meat Solutions of Friona, Texas, has expressed a desire to give $12,000 in honor of its Curry County employees, according to the release.

Campaign Chair for 2006-2007, Leo Lovett, vice president of business banking at Wells Fargo, has also expressed breakthroughs in his fund-raising efforts for UWENM.

“Giving to United Way changes lives all year long, because local programs are really making a difference,” UWENM Executive Director Erinn Burch said via the release.

In 2005, 51 adults were tutored in reading and English; 123 children were helped to tell the truth about their physical and sexual abuse; 155 homebound and elderly individuals received warm meals and a visit from a caring volunteer, and 1,115 women and children were sheltered at the Hartley House’s facilities as a result of UWENM programs.

Call 769-2103 to learn more about giving to United Way or to pick up a pledge envelope at places of employment.