WATCH: United Way campaign thermometer nears half way point

KELOWNA – One of the Okanagan’s largest charity fundraising campaigns is running out of time to reach its annual campaign goal. With just under two months left, the Central and South Okanagan United Way’s fundraising thermometer has yet to reach the half way mark. This year’s campaign kicked off in September with the goal of $1.5 million.

“We are 47% towards our goal so just over $700,000 of the $1.5 million,” says Shelley Gilmore, Executive Director of the Central and South Okanagan Similkameen United Way.

Progress is being tracked on a thermometer which sits on the roof of the Global Okanagan studios in downtown Kelowna. Gilmore says time is ticking to reach the 100% mark. Donations will be accepted until the end of January as part of the 2014 campaign.

“The money stays local, that is one of the biggest misconceptions about the United Way. Although we are a national entity, the money stays local,” Gilmore says.

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She adds in the Central and South Okanagan, the United Way funds close to 40 social service agencies like the Kelowna Women’s Shelter.

“The money we receive from the United Way funds our volunteer program and the volunteers are the life blood of this organization,” says Karen Mason, Executive Director of the Kelowna Women’s Shelter. She says the organization provides emergency transitional housing for women and their kids who are fleeing domestic violence.

For more information about the United Way and to learn how to donate, visit their website.