Free and discounted legal services help Lowcountry families cope with custody issues, children with special needs and property matters —and United Way of the Lowcountry is a key partner with Lowcountry Legal Volunteers.

The United Way of the Lowcountry Board of Directors announced gifts and pledges have been received totaling $2,228,152 or 80 percent of the organization’s 2012 goal of $2.8 million.

As the campaign enters its final weeks, United Way leaders urge anyone with a pledge card on their desk or their “To Do” basket to please return it as soon as possible. For more information or to make a donation, call 982-3040 or visit www.uwlowcountry.org.

Through United Way of the Lowcountry, a $25 gift provides one-half hour of legal services through Lowcountry Legal Volunteers.

Garrett Wreden,  Beaufort campaign chair, said United Way’s work stretches across demographics and across two counties to build a better community.