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United Way approaching 25 per cent of its goal

Heading into the Thanksgiving weekend the United Way announced they have already raised 23 per cent of their $8 million goal, saying they’re grateful for the incredible support of the community.

This announcement came on the heels of word the need is higher this year than ever before, with 32 community groups asking for a collective sum o $7.5 million.

“We are thrilled to share that the campaign is gaining momentum,” said Diane Shannon, Executive Director. “Our preliminary numbers indicate that we have already raised 23 per cent of our goal. As we head into this Thanksgiving weekend we are so grateful for the generosity that is being shown, even during tougher economic times.”

Shannon told MyMcMurray they made the goal before they knew the need for the year but hoped the status quo goal would be enough to meet the need in our community. Once all of the money is raised there will be some difficult decisions to make. She said should the community exceed the goal of $8 million the United Way will be able to have an impact on more lives in Fort McMurray.

“Every year is different in terms of when the donations come in,” said Shannon. “Workplace campaigns happen at different times throughout the campaign, with the larger campaigns reporting toward the end of the campaign period. We are close to where we were last year at this time, which is good news.”

You can get involved with the campaign online.