The United Way of Central Alberta has slipped behind last year’s campaign pace for the first time this year.
Lars Rogers, volunteer campaign co-chair, said 67 per cent of the $1.96-million goal has been raised to date.
He remains “cautiously optimistic” that the remaining $639,552 will be donated before the campaign wraps up at the end of January.
A number of workplace campaigns have significantly increased their contributions and the third annual Sockey Night in Red Deer was a success, Rogers said.
More than $5,000 was raised at the event held Friday at the Red Deer Rebels home game at the Centrium.
Over 1,100 pairs of socks were also thrown on the ice during the second intermission. The footwear will be donated to the Central Alberta Women’s Outreach Society, Central Alberta Refugee Effort, Central Alberta Aids Network, Red Deer Clothing Bank, Canadian Mental Health Association and Safe Harbour Society.
“It’s really nice that over 1,100 people in need can have some fresh, warm socks,” Rogers said.
He urged people to donate to the campaign that supports 32 regional programs and services that support one in three Central Albertans.
In 2010, the United Way fell short of its $2-million fundraising goal, raising $1.9 million.
For more information or to donate, please visit www.caunitedway.ca