Pocono News Section

United Way Donations

United Way Donations - Friday, December 5, 2008 at 9:10PM EST

Hazleton, Luzerne County -

A volunteer for Meals on Wheels in Hazleton takes several dinners for those in need. She does this several times a day. Her clients would go hungry if not for these meals, and the generosity of others. But this year area United Way agencies are facing a lean year.

Anita Masteller, with Hazleton Meals on Wheels says, “It is the only money we receive other than public donations, unless we get hat money. We are never able to support the people caught between federal programs or personal care from other agencies."

Pat Ward is president and C. E.O. of the United Way of Greater Hazleton . He says, “ United Ways across the United States are facing a double edged sword. In tough economic times we risk a good possibility of seeing decreased donations while at the same time a bad economic situation creates a greater demand for services provided in communities." And this year Ward says has been a challenge. He concludes, “Here in Hazleton I would call the campaign a roller coaster. We are up and down across the board. It's all over the place."

And Hazleton is not alone. Just about every United Way in our area has struggled to meet their goals.