PORT TOWNSEND — United Good Neighborhoods is working to raise $375,000 to support 34 programs and safety net services in Jefferson County.
Donors to the annual campaign, which began Nov. 11 and extends though Dec. 31, can give to a specific agency or to the United Good Neighbor general fund.
As of Nov. 22, UGN had raised $32,705 for its partner organizations that mitigate impacts of poverty and unexpected hardships for everyone from families with children to seniors, according to its website at givejefferson.org.
The nonprofits provide housing and shelter, food security, health care, educational opportunities, support for children and families, financial assistance and advocacy services.
UGN has operated for more than 65 years. Funds stay in the county for residents in need.
To give, go to givejefferson.org and click on a button for an individual agency or for the general fund. Credit card fees are an expense for UGN, so those who wish can donate the fee as well. Gifts can be one-time or monthly.
Donors receive email confirmations of gifts immediately after online donations, according to a press release. Receipts are issued by Jefferson Community Foundation, UGN’s administrative partner.
Those with Donor Advised Accounts can give from those online accounts. Workplace Giving campaigns also can be organized.
In general, UGN shares the contact information of donors with the organizations that benefit so they can send thanks. Donors who do not want their information to be shared can choose to donate anonymously.
Gifts to the general fund go where UGN staff members see the greatest needs.
Partner agencies are Bayside Housing & Services, Jefferson County Shelter (COAST), Habitat for Humanity of East Jefferson County, Olympic Neighbors, Winter Welcoming Center (Jefferson Interfaith Action Coalition), Community Wellness Project, Food Bank Growers, Jefferson County Farmers Markets, Jefferson County Association of Food Banks, Port Townsend Kiwanis Charitable Trust, Weekend Nutrition Program, New Image.
Also, The Society of St. Vincent De Paul East Jefferson County Conference, First Step Family Support Center, Foster Supports, Jefferson Teen Center, Olympic Angels, Olympic Peninsula YMCA, Chimacum Center, Clallam-Jefferson County Pro Bono Lawyers, Dove House Advocacy Services, Jefferson County Immigrant Rights Advocates (JCIRA), Olympic Pride, OWL 360.
Also, ECHHO (Ecumenical Christian Helping Hands Organization), JC MASH, The Benji Project, Community Boat Project, Jefferson County Library, Northwest Maritime Center, North Olympic Salmon Coalition, The ReCyclery of Jefferson County, Skillmation, YEA Music.
For more information, see givejefferson.org or call 360-385-1729.
