September 17, 2020 – Washington Co., WI – Volunteers and members of the United Way of Washington County spent three hours Wednesday afternoon collecting boxes and bags of canned items, peanut butter, and dry goods during its annual campaign kickoff.
The event morphed a bit in 2020 but turned out to be highly successful.
United Against Hunger was a drive-thru event held at the Washington County Fair Park.
Leading this year’s annual campaign are Women in Business: Prudence Pick Hway, Debra Cahoon, Amy Salberg, Rose Petitte and Jacci Gambucci.
This event is one of the biggest food drives in Washington County history and was done in a COVID-safe manner. Participants drove into Washington County Fair Park and were able to drop off their donations without leaving their vehicles. Volunteers from the United Way’s Emerging Leaders group were on hand to collect donations.
United Way of Washington County Executive Director Kristin Brandner said, “This event is a great way to help fight hunger in Washington County, where 1 in 14 residents received Foodshare benefits last year.”
Prudence Pick Hway is one of the campaign co-chairs. “These are challenging times. Many people are concerned about even the basics like food and shelter. The United Way is committed to ensuring these basic needs are met for everyone in the county. Our kick off food drive focused on just one of those basic needs.”
The event, sponsored by Sysco of Jackson and Advocate Aurora, helped officially kick off United Way’s annual fundraising campaign, which runs through December 31.
Campaign co-chair Rose Petitte said, “We hope to generate momentum from this event which encourages people to donate to help their local community.”
United Way of Washington County provides an opportunity for community members to Give, Advocate, and Volunteer as ways to give back and pay it forward. Funds raised during the campaign will support over 20 programs aligned under the pillars of Education, Financial Stability, and Health. To join the Uniting Force for Good in making an online donation, go to www.UnitedWayOfWashingtonCounty.org
