Neighbor to Neighbor

Times were beginning to get tough here in Utah back on October 30 when United Way of Salt Lake launched its emergency Neighbor-to-Neighbor Response program. During the ensuing month, though, the extreme challenges of the current economic crisis have become significantly worse.

United Way, of course, typically directs its efforts toward the neediest among us. Because of what's happening with the economy, the resources of United Way and its partners have been severely stretched. One example is the Utah Food Bank where requests for emergency food assistance are up more than 30-percent over a year ago. Other agencies tell similar stories.

That's why United Way launched the Neighbor-to-Neighbor Response program. The goal is to raise $5 million in new financial resources as well as food, clothing and other necessities, by December 15th. This is over and above United Way's regular annual fund raising campaign. The community response, as it typically is, has been gratifying. People have been generous with their resources. The goal, though, is yet to be met.

KSL urges widespread support of this urgent United Way campaign. Now, more than ever, the Utah community needs to step up and help those of our neighbors who are struggling to have food, shelter and the basics of life.