Editorial: United Way needs your help so it can help others

The United Way of Lee County kicked off its annual campaign this week and we must remind folks of the vital role this charitable group plays in our community. The United Way helps those who often cannot help themselves.
Below are a few eye-popping numbers that show why groups like the United Way — which helps fund a variety of people-serving and need-specific organizations — are necessary:

* 10,746 Lee County residents are 65 years or older and 15 percent of these live in poverty. The East Alabama Services for the Elderly helps seniors remain independent.

* 40 percent of Lee County adults do not have a high school diploma or GED. The Lee County Literacy Coalition provides tutoring services to help.

* 1,800 babies were born at East Alabama Medical Center in 2008, 11 percent of which were to teen mothers. Special Deliveries provides support through parental training skills for pregnant teens in Lee County.

* 54 rapes were reported in Lee County last year, 70 percent of which went unreported. Rape Counselors of East Alabama hopes to lower this rate by offering rape prevention presentations.

* In 2008, there were 244 reported cases of child abuse or neglect in Lee County. But the Child Advocacy Center of East Alabama chipped in with a personal safety program for children.

But programs don’t come without a cost. That’s why fundraisers are vital to the continuing success of this agency. The economy is tough right now for all of us, but programs sponsored by the United Way continue to need your help so they can help others.