United Way of Gloucester County invites community members will join in on Saturday, May 16 for its Virtual Telethon to raise money for its Gloucester County Community Partners.
Starting at 2 p.m. on May 16, United Way of Gloucester County’s Facebook page will be posting video performances from local artists; some well-known bands, comedians and other performers, as well as some surprise performers. The Masters of Ceremonies are Tim Jennings from Telecorp. Inc., and Ryan Harbinson, from ClearBridge Branding. The two-hour Facebook show will also include Facebook Live comments from the MC’s and guests.
At 4 p.m. on May 16, festivities will wrap up with a one-hour Webex with more special guest appearances. The fundraising goal is $15,000 and every dollar raised will go toward COVID-19 recovery for Gloucester County residents in need.
United Way of Gloucester County knows that some of the area’s most vulnerable individuals are at risk and are having to make changes due to the spread of COVID-19. In response, United Way is launching the Community Response & Recovery Fund to assist local community organizations and better serve county residents.
United Way has already seen the impact on the residents of our community and local nonprofit agencies. Many organizations have had to change the way in which they provide services to the community as we all try to reduce the spread of this disease. This has included the closure of local child development centers, free tax preparation sites and support group meetings. Virtual and mobile services are being used when possible and community resources such as local food pantries are struggling to keep up with demand.
During this critical time, United Way understands the unprecedented challenges many in the community are facing. During a public health crisis like COVID-19, vulnerable populations are more at risk to suffer from economic, social and emotional consequences. Incidents of mental health crisis, domestic violence, homelessness, job loss, child abuse and food insecurity will increase over the next several weeks and months as we work to contain and mitigate the virus.
To make a donation to the UWGC Community Response and Recovery Fund, COVID-19, visit uwgcnj.org/donate, send donations by mail to 454 Crown Point Rd. Thorofare, NJ 08086 specially marked for the COVID-19 Response, or make a donation through the United Way of Gloucester County’s Facebook page.
These funds will only be utilized to assist individuals in Gloucester County. For more information, contact: Michael Gower, executive director, United Way of Gloucester County, at (856) 845-4303 ext. 14 or by email at mgower@uwgcnj.org.
