CLEARFIELD – The Clearfield Area United Way has wrapped up its 14th annual Jeans for Teens program. However, it’s now preparing to kick-off its annual campaign this week.
In recent weeks, the CAUW kicked off the letter portion of its annual campaign. Recipients are requested to consider making a donation, which is tax-deductible.
If you do not receive a letter, you can still mail a donation to CAUW, 18 N. Second St., Suite 4, P.O. Box 1430, Clearfield, PA 16830.
The CAUW helps 23 local member agencies that are throughout eastern, southern and central Clearfield County. It’s most recent program was Jeans for Teens.
The program was made possible thanks to the CAUW with help from Kurtz Bros., the Clearfield American Legion and other private contributors.
According to Chief Professional Officer Nancy Pinto, the program was a success. It helped area teens get new clothes for school, which builds their self-esteem.
She also said it’s a program that needs to be grown, and Greg Dixon, campaign chair, added that the CAUW is in need of donations for Jeans for Teens to continue in the future.
The CAUW thanked a local church for making a donation. Pinto and Dixon said donations can still be made for this special once-a-year program and to put “J for T” in the check memo.
As part of Jeans for Teens, CAUW worked with area agencies, churches, department stores, youth and shopping mentors.
Through a special partnership, it had enough funding this year for each child to be awarded $100 for new school clothes. Wal-Mart and Peebles also gave extra coupons and goodies, as well.
The CAUW helps agencies from libraries and daycares to the American Red Cross, senior programs and the local YMCA.
“We ask that you be as generous as possible when you give to United Way,” Dixon said, adding that funding cuts are affecting many member agencies, which have left gaps to be filled.