The United Way of Central and South Okanagan/Similkameen (CSO) is nearing the close of their annual fundraising campaign and are falling short of the $1.5 million goal.

The campaign has achieved nearly $1.1 million to date. It’s not too late to donate.

Their fiscal year end is Jan. 31, 2016 and donations are gratefully accepted until then.

Last year, the United Way invested over $1 million back into the community in three focus areas to support vulnerable kids, youth, families and seniors.

This includes, but not limited to, kids breakfast programs, sustaining shelter beds for youth who are homeless, or ensuring families and children have access to affordable, high quality counselling services.

For a complete list of funded programs and impact investments, visit: http://unitedwaycso.com/what-we-do/ .

“All donations raised here, stay here,” says Shelley Gilmore, Executive Director of United Way CSO. “With one in five children living in poverty in our region, we’re hoping to tackle the root cause of poverty in our communities and make a dent in these startling statistics. We are so thankful for all the workplace campaigns, individuals and socially-conscious companies that donate annually. The needs are greater every year so we hope that donors will still consider giving before the end of January. Your gift makes such a difference in the lives of so many.”

United Way serves a diverse and broad region. They collect funds separately for each region (Central and South Okanagan) and funds are allocated based on need and focus area.

Over 20 community volunteers donate their time to review and assess funding applications. Applications are open this year and due near the end of February.

Decisions on allocations are made by the end of June.

Employee workplace campaigns make up a significant portion of the annual campaign and 16 workplaces have yet to report so they expect to see a hike in the total by the end of January.

But, the need is still great and they are making one last appeal for donors to respond.

To donate, call 1-250-860-2356 or toll-free (outside Kelowna/West Kelowna) 1-855-232-1321 or donate online at www.unitedwaycso.com .

For over 65 years, the United Way of the Central and South Okanagan/Similkameen has served the region from Lake Country in the North, to Osoyoos and Princeton in the South. Our Community Impact mission captures the essence of what we do: We improve lives and build community by engaging individuals and mobilizing collective action.

The United Way invests for maximum impact in three focus areas that support all that kids can be, move people from poverty to possibility and builds strong communities. For more visit unitedwaycso.com or call 1-855-232-1321.

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