Money flowing out of Jefferson County for victims of the World Trade Center and Pentagon attacks could put a damper on local fund-raising efforts.
Bob Peden, manager of United Good Neighbors of Jefferson County, said he hasn’t seen negative impacts to UGN’s annual fund-raising campaign which began Sept. 15, but he fears some people won’t be able to support the campaign as they have in the past.
“I hope when people are giving to the American Red Cross to help the victims, they don’t forget their local agencies,” Peden said. “Our campaign is running normal, though, and I see no evidence of contributions falling off, but it’s early in the campaign.”
UGN hopes to raise $260,000 this year, up from its goal of $225,000 last year, which it exceeded. It funds 244 programs throughout Jefferson County — from the Boiler Room youth center in Port Townsend to the Retired Senior Volunteers Program.
Peden said a worsening economy could have more impact on the UGN campaign than the terrorist attacks.
The full report appears in today’s Jefferson County edition of the Peninsula Daily News. Click on “Subscribe” to get the PDN delivered to your home or office.