By WBFO News
Buffalo, NY – The United Way of Buffalo and Erie County wrapped up the public portion of its fall campaign Friday, well short of its goal.
Just over $11.2 million were raised, 76 percent of the nearly $15 million goal.
"Given what's going on economically, we're obviously concerned," said Paulette Crooke, Regional President of HSBC and the 2008 United Way Campaign chair. "However, we're encouraged by our results so far. We re-instituted a public goal and an end date this year to encourage early gifts, and it's working - we're poised to end strong."
United Way president Arlene Kaukus remains optimistic that the goal will be met.
"We wouldn't have achieved this result without the support of 44,915 donors and 895 companies who have given so generously to this year's campaign -- through individual and corporate gifts, special events and other fundraisers," Kaukus said. "In spite of the recession -- indeed perhaps because of it -- the people of Erie County are once again proving their spirit of generosity in difficult times."
Donations will be accepted until the organization closes its annual books in March.