>La Grande Observer | Union and Wallowa Counties' News Leader

Residents of Northeast Oregon have a history of generosity and volunteerism that has contributed greatly to our quality of life here. But we must all remember that today in Union County some 4,000 children and family members are living in poverty and struggling with the everyday essentials of food, clothing and shelter. Beyond that, there are families in crisis — dealing with domestic violence, child abuse and substance abuse — who need "safe houses," counseling and support.

Every fall, the United Way of Union County launches a fundraising drive to support more than a dozen local agencies that provide essential services to those who need it most. These agencies focus on critical issues that fall under three broad categories:

1) Improving People's Lives. This includes connecting low-income families to supplemental food programs. We're fortunate to have a great group of community volunteers staffing food banks in Elgin, Cove, Union, North Powder, Haines and the Salvation Army food bank in La Grande. They are an essential part of the "safety net" that many families rely upon.

Also under this category are those agencies that help people access services, counseling and/or shelter for victims of child abuse, neglect, domestic or sexual violence. This includes Shelter from the Storm, CASA and the Mount Emily Safe Center.

2) Promoting Community Stability. Your United Way donation also helps fund agencies that help strengthen families, promote self-sufficiency, provide emergency services, assist victims and provide safety education, outdoor rescues and disaster response. This includes the Eastern Oregon Chapter of the American Red Cross, Union County Search and Rescue and Neighbor to Neighbor Ministries.

3) Helping children develop and succeed. All of us need to invest in the children of our community. The Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts are known for encouraging community service, responsibility and leadership. Kids Club provides youth programs and activities and quality child care services. All these organizations are worthy of our support.

Remember that all dollars raised in Union County, stay in Union County. An individual donation of $50 a year (less than a dollar a week) — combined with donations from like-minded citizens — can make a huge difference in the everyday lives of local families.

We all have neighbors, co-workers or family members who have fallen on hard times. Many of them look to United Way volunteers and the agencies they represent to provide assistance, funding and hope. The United Way is a great organization that will see that your dollars are put to good use in our community. We urge you to make a contribution today.