United Way sets Day of Caring dates

United Way information

The United Way of Van Wert County Day of Caring has set its 14th annual Day of Caring for September 28 and 29.

For those who may not be familiar with the United Way Day of Caring, it is an opportunity for community citizens to live up to the United Way motto of “Give. Advocate. Volunteer.” by participating in the annual Salvation Army food drive, American Red Cross blood drive, volunteer service projects and new this year, the Community Action Poverty Simulation.

The United Way Day of Caring kicks off Friday, September 28, with a food drive to restock the local Salvation Army Food Pantry. This year’s goal is to collect 25,000 food items through the local school drives, drop-offs at the various United Way food drive barrels and the Service Club challenge.  Barrels will once again be placed around the county with a list of needed items. Those needing assistance in locating a barrel for donations can call the United Way office at 419.238.6689.  The Salvation Army food pantry serves hundreds of families and individuals in Van Wert County each year.

Also on Friday, will be the American Red Cross Blood Drive.  Our goal for this drive is 200 units.  Anyone 17 years of age, weighing at least 110 pounds and in general good health is encouraged to donate.  Appointments can be made by calling 800.RED.CROSS or by visiting www.redcrossblood.org.  The Red Cross provides blood products to nearly 3000 hospitals and transfusion centers across the country.

Agency service projects will once again take place on Saturday September 29.  These projects pair local businesses and organizations with United Way agencies to complete a needed service project for the agency.  Smiles, fun and fellowship are sure to be in order for those who participate.  Please contact the United Way office at 419.238.6689 if you, your organization or business would like to be paired up with a United Way agency for this year’s Day of Caring service projects.

Finally, the United Way will be paring up with the YWCA of Van Wert County to sponsor the Ohio Association of Foodbanks’ Community Action Poverty Simulation to take place on Thursday, September 20, from 1-4 p.m., at the YWCA of Van Wert County.  This simulation will provide a free, interactive experience to educate the community about the harsh realities of poverty facing many individuals in Van Wert and surrounding counties.  For more details about the poverty simulation or to volunteer, call the YWCA of Van Wert County at the above number.

For more information on the United Way Day of Caring, contact the United Way of Van Wert County at the above telephone number, email unitedway109@embarqmail.com or visit the United Way of Van Wert County website at www.vanwert.com/unitedway.