Annual ‘Share the Warmth’ program begins

The United Way started this initiative for needy families in 2005

As Thanksgiving Day approaches and families gather together to celebrate, it’s time for United Way’s annual “Share the Warmth” program to get underway.

Started in 2005, and partnered with the Daily Local News since 2007, “Share the Warmth” has helped numerous needy families with winterization projects, such as fixing leaky roofs and fixing broken furnaces.

“The goal is to help people who are inadequately housed,” said Claudia Hellebush, president and CEO of United Way of Chester County.

Since the program started in 2005, over $800,000 has been raised to support families and about 450 families have benefited from the program, and since 2007, the generosity of the Daily Local News’ readership has also contributed to the success of the program.

From Thanksgiving Day until Christmas Day, readers can once again make donations to help the less fortunate during this time of giving.

“It never ceases to amaze me the level of generosity we receive from our readers each year,” said Ed Condra, senior publisher of the newspaper. “The Daily Local News is proud of this tradition and over the years this community has opened their hearts and their wallets to help family, friends, neighbors and strangers who are struggling this holiday season. It is with this community support that we are proudly entering our ninth year.

“We know our neighbors in Chester County will once again rally around this tremendous cause,” Condra said, reflecting on the generosity he has seen come from people of every walk

of life in the past.

“All the funds we raise, 100 percent, will go to those less fortunate,” he said. “These are neighbors who need our help — especially this time of year.”

Interested potential donors can mail in checks payable to United Way of Chester County to 211 N. Walnut St., West Chester Pa., 19380

with attention to “Share the Warmth.”

Also, interested readers can donate online at www. givetosharethewarmth. com.