With less than two weeks to go before the scheduled Campaign Finale, United Way of Mid Coast Maine is encouraging all area residents who have not yet done so to pledge to the campaign.

"Your help will make a difference!" said Campaign Chair Darlene Chalmers, Director of Mid Coast Senior Health Center. "If we haven't already asked you to give, please consider this your invitation. This is truly a community campaign for all of us to help each other, and everyone is included and welcomed."

Chalmers noted that there is a direct relationship between the dollars raised now, and the number of Mid Coast residents who will get needed, life-changing help next year. Last year United Way helped approximately 20,000 midcoast residents, working with local partner agencies, including Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Midcoast Maine, Center for Teens in Damariscotta, Central Lincoln County YMCA, Healthy Kids!, Elder Care Network of Lincoln County, Mobius, New Hope for Women, and many others. For example:

• 3,872 individuals and families were provided with food and shelter

• 2,711 elders and others in need received community volunteer support to remain independent

• 1,740 children benefited from healthy parenting workshops and home visiting programs

• 601 vulnerable youth were matched with mentors, improving their school performance and self-confidence

Contributions can be sent to United Way of Mid Coast Maine, 34 Wing Farm Parkway, Bath, ME 04530, or interested donors can call United Way at 443-9752 to give by credit card or direct debit. United Way's Steady Supporter Program offers monthly or quarterly giving options.

Dozens of volunteers throughout midcoast Maine are working to reach United Way's Campaign goal of $1,835,000 to change lives in Lincoln and Sagadahoc counties, Brunswick, and Harpswell. The Campaign Finale is scheduled for Wednesday, November 7.