Grand Forks' United Way has seen a slight increase in donations since last year, but that's apparently not enough, the group said Friday.
In contrast to the 1.7 percent growth in donations is the 41 percent increase in funding request from social service and other agencies, United Way President Pat Berger said.
"This increase is due in part to the change in our funding model, but it also reflects the increased needs for some of our residents," she said in a press release.
Instead of offering money to a select group of agencies, the release explained, United Way now offers money for select causes, namely children's education, financial stability for families and improving health.
The 2009 fall fundraising campaign aimed to increase donations by 5 percent to $1 million. United Way is projecting it'll end up with $962,000, a 1.7 percent increase.
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Campaign Chairwoman Jill Fritel said the group is waiting for decisions from some national companies that have a local presence but will close the books in March.
That's when volunteers in the Grant Review Committee will mull over funding requests.
Last year, 31 agencies sought $691,870 in funding. This year, 50 agencies are seeking $975,304.
On the Web: www.unitedwaygfegf.org
