Each fall I do a stint with United Way of Kitsap County helping to promote the fall fund drive. Each campaign starts with a pretty clear idea of the needs in our community and an enthusiastic group of volunteers willing to generate both knowledge and excitement about the campaign among employee groups throughout the county. But this year, since the September kick-off, we have watched the economy degenerate almost daily, creating unprecedented need among many Kitsap County families.
In speaking to employee groups this year, I find people responding in one of two ways. Some have become more generous, responding as these needs unfold; others are becoming hoarders, holding tightly to what they currently have in fear of losing it.
May I remind us of the old maxim: No one ever becomes poorer by giving to others.
Among our county’s most urgent needs are: emergency and low-cost housing, food, utilities assistance, rental assistance, transportation, medical and dental care.
Yet according to our local papers, agencies and charities around us are closing their doors for lack of funding. I recently read in a local paper that there are more than 86,000 employed people in Kitsap County; fewer than 7,000 of them actually donate to United Way.
There are steps you personally can take to change that: If you work for a company that does not even have an employee campaign, contact United Way to get one started.
As an individual, it’s easy to donate right now.
Go to: unitedwaykitsap.org and click on Give Now.
Or you may donate directly to any local charity; both cash and food are welcome at your community food bank.
The United Way credo asks us to Live United, to be a community that draws together in times of need, to be there for those who are struggling, to Give, to Advocate, and to Volunteer.
That requires those of us who are employed to step up to an even higher level than we have in the past.
I guarantee making a donation during the holidays will make your family celebrations a little warmer, a lot more meaningful.
Jo A. Reasons
Port Orchard
