The United Way of Martin County Board of Directors approved its annual funding to local agency programs, distributing more than $1.5 million raised during the 2008-09 campaign.

Funding is focused on priority areas addressing the community’s needs such as helping children and youth achieve their potential, providing stability and independence for families and individuals in crisis and increasing access to health care services.

About 70 volunteers on citizen review panels examined applications for United Way support and chose who would received money, United Way Executive Director Jim Vojcsik said.

The 2008-09 United Way of Martin County campaign raised almost $2.1 million. Of the remaining total, $100,000 is set aside for unfulfilled pledges. About 16 percent is used by United Way of Martin County for fund-raising and administrative expenses. The balance will support community research, planning and initiatives such as the Earned Income Tax Credit program and the Shared Services Network mobilization to reduce youth substance abuse. (more…)