The Smethport Campaign for United Way officially closed the 2015 campaign having raised $15,245, surpassing the monetary goal for the first time since being managed by the United Way of the Bradford Area.
“Having served on the United Way of the Bradford Area board for several years, I know the tremendous benefits that a United Way agency brings to a community,” said UWBA Board Vice President David Krantz. “I was delighted when our sister-community Smethport decided to partner with us a few years ago, and thrilled that they have not only rebounded from some difficult times, but surpassed their campaign goal for 2015.”
Krantz added, “It’s a great testament to the caring people of Smethport and their commitment to the United Way.”
UWBA Board Member and Smethport representative, Patty Witchen, echoed Krantz’s remarks of appreciation and added, “Combined community donations create benefits for our small non-profits that they would not be able to achieve otherwise.”
Applications for funding from the Smethport Campaign are due March 1 and September 1. Non-profit health and human service organizations providing programming to the Smethport area are eligible to apply.
Executive Director, Mandi Wilton Davis, said, “With raising more, we obviously have more to give out, which is great!”
Hamlin Library Director, Lori Rounsville, said the Smethport Campaign for United Way has a huge impact on family programming and the library in general.
“We depend on the United Way for our Summer Reading Program t-shirts, as well as craft supplies for both summer reading and our monthly family night program. We average 85 kids for summer reading—if they attend four times, they get a t-shirt – free – thanks to UW.
“Our monthly family night programs have variable attendance, but the most popular is Plate Night, which was enjoyed by 60 people in the fall of 2015. The United Way provided one plate per family – again, free of charge,” Rounsville added.
For more information on the Smethport Campaign for United Way, or to make a contribution, visit www.uwbanews.org/smethport or call the United Way office at 814-368-6181.