To the Editor:

Thanks to great participation from the Big Three, International Paper Riverdale Mill, Bush Hog, and GE Plastics have all combined to contribute almost $190,000 to the United Way this year.

This marks an increase of almost 3 percent for these companies. United Way funds programs at 15 area agencies that affect all our lives.

The United Way campaign is approaching $380,000, which put us at about 7 percent increase over last year, but short of our goal of $450,000.

2006 has also been a good year for the United Way’s HealthLink program in partnership with Vaughan Community Health Services.

The HealthLink program has brought almost $2 million worth of prescription medicines to the people of this area since its inception.

HealthLink also began a diabetes monitoring and education program for its clients.

The HealthLink program is administered by the United Way and is free of charge to its clients.

The United Way has also been conducting a year long hurricane recovery program for those affected by hurricanes Katrina and Rita.

This program has brought in cash grants from government sources, to affected families totaling almost $400,000. With these programs and the annual campaign the total economic impact of the United Way for Dallas County is almost $3 million.

With the campaign concluding achieving a 7 percent increase most United Way agencies will see a small increase in their allocation.

The needs in our community are great and the agencies of the United Way will be there to help meet those needs.

Thanks to your support of the United Way of Dallas County agencies, will have some of the tools they need to help those who need it most.

Your United Way continues to work in our community finding new ways to meet needs. With the continued support of the great companies mentioned before, and great local businesses, and people of our area, the future is brighter for all of us.

Jeff Cothran

Executive Director

United Way of Selma & Dallas County