United Way short of its goal

By RON LARSEN

Journal Staff Writer

NEW ULM--The United Way of New Ulm 2002 fund-raising campaign is drawing to a close and is still well short of its goal of $390,000, United Way officials reported this week.

"At our January meeting, we expect to be off our goal by $10,000 to $15,000," UW Executive Director Carisa Buegler said.

To date, the drive had raised $300,793 which is 77 percent of its goal. The goal amount is $10,000 higher than the $380,000 raised during the 2001 campaign.

However, United Way officials said the impact of a short-fall in donations would be absorbed by the United Way.

"Our agencies won't come up short if we do not meet our goal," said UW Board President Steve Lawrence. "I don't believe we would shut the campaign off if we went into January and February still short of our goal."

Buegler and Lawrence attributed the sluggish campaign to economic conditions which have seen firms like Kraft Foods and 3-M laying off more employees.

"Unfortunately, our community is also experiencing increased needs," Buegler said. "For example, the foodshelf is seeing more clients and First Call For Help is handling more calls and callers are in more need, like facing possible eviction, making utility payments or even just putting food on the table."

"When you have families in need, that's when you need the United Way the most," Lawrence added. "We hope people realize it's not too late (to give). Even $5 will help."

"United Way's also concerned about the state deficit, and how it could impact our partner agency programming and those we serve in the New Ulm and Brown County area," Buegler said.

"With many difficult choices we are making during these tough economic times, United Way is greatly appreciative for all those who've chosen to give back to their community through United Way."

Buegler and Lawrence said donations can still be made by sending them to the United Way of New Ulm, P.O. Box 476, New Ulm, MN 56073.