If you haven’t done so yet, take a little time this week to donate to the United Way of Freeborn County.

This year, the organization hopes to raise $598,000.

Out of every dollar donated, 89 cents goes toward local programs. The money raised in the campaign this year will go to support 26 programs from 13 agencies.

The goal was determined by the amount of funding requested by United Way partner agencies: Adult Basic Education, Albert Lea Family Y, The Arc of Freeborn County, Catholic Charities, Cedar Valley Services, The Children’s Center, Crime Victims Crisis Center, Crisis Response Team, Healthy Families, Parenting Resource Center, Semcac Community Action, Senior Resources of Freeborn County and the Albert Lea Salvation Army.

In addition to these agencies, the United Way has a basic needs fund focused on disaster response and other emergency needs not covered by local programs. It also supports collaborations that focus on domestic violence, early childhood development, food access for seniors, mental health and quality out-of-school time. That’s a lot of programs.

In addition to one-time donations, the United Way can accept payroll deductions for donations as well. This is an easy, pre-tax way to donate, and all you have to do is sign up for it. Instead of worrying about a one-time donation, you can have smaller amounts taken out of each check that add up to more.

However you decide to do it, don’t forget your money goes to support a good cause. Hundreds will benefit from your donations.

 

— Editorials are the opinion of The Albert Lea Tribune editorial board.