WISCONSIN RAPIDS, Wis (WFHR/WIRI) – In 2024 the United way helped the community help each other through programs and events. The success from last year is a springboard for more opportunities in 2025.

Successful Year of Events

Whether it’s raking leaves or supporting students, the United Way helps the community help each other. The Day of Caring Event which was held in October was able to rake 88 yards. The 462 volunteers helped members of our communities who are disabled or seniors unable to manage on their own.

The 2024 United We Can competition in cooperation with the Wisconsin Rapid Rafters collected over 6347 pounds of food for 5 local food programs. This was thanks to the 91 volunteers who composed 7 teams of sponsor businesses or non-profit organizations.

Their Great Book Giveaway put 832 books in the hands of over 300 children who attended one of the 10 reading events held over one week. They will begin collecting gently used or new books in April for their 2025 event.

Stuff the Bus and Stuff the Desk continued to see the elevated need of families in our area. The community helped each other by donating school supplies. With the help of over 100 volunteers the United Way supplied 946 students with the items they needed to begin the school year.

Helping the Community

In addition to helping the community help each other, the United way has programs to support all. For children and youth, not only are there reading events, but they can find out about summer programs at the Summer Fun Fest. Youth can learn about economics and how to manage personal finances through the Finance and Investment Challenge Bowl. Adults of all ages can find help with their taxes through the My Free Taxes program. Families and Individuals can participate in Singlecare. This program allows you to see if you can get a discount on your drug prescription. The Senior Stock Box program provides pantry staples for those 65 or older who meet the income limit.

A Resource for Help

The United Way is there to help the community 24/7. 211 is a simple, free, confidential referral and information helpline. It is also a website linking people to the essential health and human services they need, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Links

To learn more about The United Way of South Woods and Adams County go to their website here.

You can connect with 211 Helpline website here.

Listen to the full interview with Ben Eberlien, Community Engagement Director with United Way of South Wood and Adams Counties on Midday Magazine with James J. Malouf.

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