The group fell short of its $1.8M goal, but it did surpass last year’s total.
AUBURN – Despite layoffs and company closings, the local United Way says its donations rose in 2003 – but only a little.
Donors gave an estimated $1,739,000 this past year, an increase of about $4,000 over 2002. The organization’s leaders had hoped to raise $1.8 million.
The economy has so tightened wallets that a weekly $2 donation can be a struggle, said Charles Johnson, president of the United Way of Androscoggin County. At least 85 percent of the local organization’s money comes from donations which are deducted from paychecks, he said. When people feel squeezed, they’re reluctant to give anything.
“Local companies are undergoing mergers and restructuring,” said Johnson. “I think it’s hitting us all.”
Such tough times are when the United Way meets its greatest demands.
In all, the United Way spreads its money among 32 area agencies and 54 programs. Leaders estimate the United Way annually helps 30,000 people, about a third of Androscoggin County’s population.
Many of the service organizations have cut back in the past year. The YMCA, the YWCA, the Abused Women’s Advocacy Project and others have cut staff. Local municipalities have slashed donations.
Groups asked for half a million dollars more than they will receive, Johnson said.
The organization has already begun planning for next year. Campaign Chairman Mark Anthoine said they will try to be more visible this year, beginning even before the start of fund-raising.
Johnson plans to call for people to think of their community as an extended family. Throughout Lewiston-Auburn and surrounding communities, there are few reminders that families reside here, not merely struggling individuals. Perhaps if people could think of their neighbors that way, they might be willing to share more.
Despite the challenges, the United Way planned to celebrate Tuesday night when it officially ended its annual fund-raising campaign with a banquet at the Hilton Garden Inn.
“It can never be depressing,” Johnson said. People found a way to donate despite all the hard times. About 25 percent of all the money raised came from individuals or couples who gave at least $500 each.
“People are giving up their time, effort and their own money,” he said. “That’s a success.”
Comments are no longer available on this story