ST. THOMAS, U.S. Virgin Islands, January 29 – The most recent results of the United Way’s efforts to raise $650,000 in support of 17 human service agencies are “discouraging,” according to United Way president S. L. Caesar. As of January 27, only $429,605 of the goal of $650,000 had been contributed or pledged, leaving a gap of more than $220,000. Although the campaign officially ends on January 31, corporate, government and individual givers can make donations or pledges through March 31.

 “This year’s campaign has been particularly troublesome,” explained campaign chairman Steve Jones. “Although some givers have come through with flying colors, other contributors have reduced their gifts or declined the appeal. Naturally there is concern for the local economy and the national outlook, but people must realize that the future of many of our most respected human service agencies is in jeopardy when the United Way’s goal is not met.”

Caesar concurred with Jones. “The United Way doesn’t raise funds for the United Way. It raises funds for charitable organizations which need our support. For example, if each of our 17 agencies knocked on your door, you’d probably give them each $5.00. Through the United Way, you can make one payment for the same amount, $85.00, which gets distributed to the agencies. Another example would be that by giving up one soda a week, you would be able to give $52.00 a year to help others. I’m personally appealing to every person in our community to think about the consequences of more agencies closing, and then reassess your ability to give.” The United Way of St. Thomas-St. John provides financial support to member human services agencies serving the two islands. If the United Way is unable to meet its goal, the agencies will suffer cutbacks in their allocations during 2003. A reduction in operating revenue could cause many agencies to reduce or eliminate needed charitable programs serving the community’s residents.

The United Way's member agencies currently include: American Red Cross, V. I. Council, Boy Scouts of America, Carabana Ensemble Theatre Company, Catholic Charities of the V.I., Civil Air Patrol, Dial-A-Ride St. Thomas, Dial-A-Ride St. John, Downstreet People's Youth in Action, Ebenezer Gardens, Friends of Volunteers in Public Schools, Girl Scout Council of the V.I., Legal Services of the V.I., Shaky Acres, V.I. Institute for Teaching and Learning, Fair Havens Summer Camp, Lutheran Reformation Summer Program, and St. Thomas Reformed Church Summer Program.

To make a contribution or pledge to the United Way, contact the United Way office at 774-3185. Gifts can be mailed to the United Way of St. Thomas-St. John at Nisky Center, Suite 220, St. Thomas, VI 00802.

For further information, contact Executive Director Thyra Hammond at 774-3185.