Letter: Living United on Giving Tuesday

To the Editor: Although the United Way is the largest philanthropic organization in the world, each United Way is completely local. What makes our United Way so unique is that all funds raised into our local Valley United Way stay in our community. Our Valley United Way works in Shelton, Derby, Seymour, Ansonia and Oxford to strengthen families, support senior citizens, help people in crisis, and prepare youth to succeed. I have been living united ever since my introduction to the Valley United Way as a member of their Youth Leadership Program when I was in Shelton High School. The experience of serving our community for the betterment of others has stayed with me my entire life and continues to inspire me today. The Valley United Way makes a difference in the lives of hard working families who struggle to make ends meet during these challenging times. Issues of food insecurity exist in our Valley but have been exacerbated by the economic impacts of COVID-19. St. Vincent De Paul Thrift Shoppe & Food Pantry in Derby has reported a nearly 40% increase in the number of households needing food since the onset of the pandemic. That's why the Valley United Way set a goal to raise $40,000 for the local pantries to ensure their shelves are full and families are fed, especially during the holidays. Further, in the last year alone, the Valley United Way collaborated with area agencies as we recovered from the impact of the pandemic and strengthened our economic resiliency. The Valley United Way has joined Giving Tuesday, a global day of giving that encourages generosity worldwide. The old adage is true — with the United Way, you give once but help many. Please join us in Giving Tuesday this year, and help us build a stronger community now and in our shared future. Please consider making a contribution that will have an impact in our community by giving online at www.valleyunitedway.org; or by check to the Valley United Way, 54 Grove St., Shelton CT 06484. The Valley is a community with heart; full of people who support one another. Thank you for living united. Jimmy Tickey Chairman Emeritus Valley United Way

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