United Way Day of Caring dates set

VW United Way information

The United Way of Van Wert County has set the dates for the 16th annual Day of Caring for September 26 and 27.

For those not familiar with the United Way Day of Caring, it’s an opportunity for the Van Wert community to rally together to “Give. Advocate. Volunteer.” by participating in the Salvation Army Food Drive, American Red Cross blood drive, and volunteer for service projects.

The Day of Caring will begin on Friday, September 26, with a food drive to restock The Salvation Army food pantry. The Salvation Army Food Pantry assisted a record number of Van Wert County families in need of food last month. A staggering 248 families, totaling 837 people, received food from the food pantry.

Due to the record number of families in need, The Salvation Army experienced a shortage of food and the community came together to help restock the shelves temporarily, but the organization still needs the United Way’s assistance. This year’s goal is to collect 30,000 food items through local school drives, drop-offs at the various United Way food drive barrels, and the Service Club Challenge.

Special prizes will be awarded again this year to the teachers and classrooms that collect the most food items. Those needing assistance in locating food barrels for donations can see a list of locations on the United Way of Van Wert County’s webpage at www.unitedwayvanwert.org.

Also taking place that Friday will be the American Red Cross Blood Drive at Trinity Friends Church, from 8 a.m.-7 p.m. The American Red Cross’s need for blood is urgent due to a shortfall in blood donations so local blood donations are greatly needed. The goal for this year’s Day of Caring blood drive is 190 units, which could potentially save up to 570 lives.

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.   As an added bonus, those donating blood at this year’s event will again be entered into a drawing to win one of four $50 gas cards, compliments of area gas stations.

Agency service projects will once again take place during the months of August and September. 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 guaranteed for those who participate. Individuals, organizations or businesses that could like to be paired with a United Way agency for this year’s Day of Caring projects should call the United Way office at 419.238.6689.

For more information on the United Way Day of Caring, contact the United Way of Van Wert County at the above phone number, email unitedway109@embarqmail.com, or visit the organization at the website above.

Be sure to follow the United Way of Van Wert County Facebook page for current events of the United Way Day of Caring.