United Way tops goal, raises $10.6 million
When the United Way of Berks County announced its 2021 campaign goal this fall, the co-chairs knew they would exceed the $10.5 million mark.
Wednesday night at the DoubleTree Hotel, cochairs Dick and Angela Ehst told the crowd that they did what they set out to do, raising $10.6 million.
“This community is simply amazing,” Angela
Ehst said. “We are living through challenging times. Your kind generosity provides hands up for our neighbors that continue to struggle. Thank you for being a hand up.”
“We share our gratitude with each and every one of you,” Dick Ehst said. “You recognize the need continues, and you all stepped up.”
United Way of Berks County President Tammy White said: “We want to thank this incredible couple for their never ending energy, tenacity and courage. They asked, they emailed, they called and they literally left no stone unturned.”
The United Way of Berks County helps people in need and addresses critical issues such as health and human service needs. The United Way also raises and distributes funds to support a network of health and human services and key issues such as education, health, financial stability and safety net services.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the United Way has distributed hundreds of thousands of personal protective equipment and personal care items to nonprofits to keep their staff and clients safe.
The United Way is the sole supporter of 2-1-1, the human services equivalent of 9-1-1.
The help line has been needed more than ever to connect people with help
during the pandemic. There were 9,500 contacts made through 2-1-1
in 2020, a 70% increase from the previous year, officials previously said.