With just a few days to go, the United Way of Greater Chattanooga had pledges of more than $11.2 million toward its $11.8 million goal in the 2010 community campaign.
Although officials said the totals from several large- and medium-sized companies have yet to be added to the final amount, the organization is requesting a final push for contributions before the end of the year.
“We thank Chattanooga for helping United Way draw so near its $11.8 million goal to help the community,” said campaign Chairman Bill Stacy. “As the year comes to a close, we are reminded of the generous spirit of the holiday and of Chattanooga. … Our community has many members still hurting from the economic hardships of the past two years. Some who never thought they would ever need or ask for help are desperate.”
To date, more than $540,000 has been raised for Walker, Catoosa and Dade counties in Georgia, and $10,900 has been raised for Marion County in Tennessee. All undesignated campaign funds raised in those counties stay in the counties.
Officials said all dollar amounts are welcome. Even a dollar a month, they said, provides a child in Hamilton or Marion counties with a free book every month for a year.
The organization will announce its final campaign total at its annual meeting in February.
Donations can be made online at www.LiveUnitedChattanooga.org or by mailing United Way of Greater Chattanooga, P.O. Box 4027, Chattanooga, TN 37405.
For information, call Brent Taylor at 752-0310.