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<p><strong>From staff reports</strong></p>
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<p>The United Way of the Lowcountry’s (UWLC) 2021 Annual Fundraising Campaign is now under way in Beaufort and Jasper counties.</p>
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<p>Funds raised during the annual campaign support local United Way partner agencies in Beaufort and Jasper counties, which provide a number of critically needed services including financial assistance to those who can’t pay their rent or utilities, access to nutritious meals, helping victims of abuse and giving students the chance to develop skills that will help them become healthy, productive adults.</p>
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<p>Donations also support United Way programs like its local HELPLINE, which is a phone number community members may call to receive information on available health and human services in the area; the Read Indeed! Early Grade Reading initiative; and the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance free tax preparation and filing program.</p>
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<p>“This has been a difficult year for so many of our neighbors, but we’re entering this campaign with great enthusiasm,” UWLC President and CEO Dale Douthat said in a release. “Last year, our community was committed to helping those who were struggling and showed us that there’s nothing we can’t make it through when we come together. While the problems our neighbors face are both old and new, the pandemic has only amplified them – which is why community support for United Way is needed now more than ever.”</p>
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<p>United Way supports 38 health and human services programs at 23 vetted partner agencies in Beaufort and Jasper counties. Through this support, more than 149,000 Lowcountry residents were assisted in the past year, many who had never needed or requested help before.</p>
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<p>Just as funds are raised locally, United Way funds stay local; supporting services focused on basic needs, education, economic mobility and health.</p>
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<p>The opportunity to participate in this year’s campaign will continue through the end of the year. For more information about United Way of the Lowcountry, its mission and to make a campaign donation, visit www.uwlowcountry.org.</p>
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<p>Those interested in holding a workplace campaign or asking neighbors to support UWLC should contact Wendy Jones at 843-379-3065 or wjones@uwlowcountry.org.</p>
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