By Howard Packowitz
BLOOMINGTON — The head of the United Way of McLean County says he’s “absolutely not” satisfied with the level of community contributions this year to dozens of local human services programs, at the same time the budget stalemate in Springfield cuts off state government funding to those organizations.
Friday afternoon, the United Way issued a news release announcing the various programs — 64 in all, managed by 32 agencies — will receive a share of at least $1.1 million, much less than in previous years. The United Way continues to receive donations, which might be distributed later this year.
In a statement, United Way President and CEO David Taylor said this year’s allocations are down 46 percent from the previous fiscal year. Anyone sensitive to the many McLean County residents in need are “absolutely not” satisfied with year’s results, said Taylor.
He also said the local United Way will do what it can to help local agencies, who are facing “excruciating challenges”, including the absence of state funding, the shift of local charitable giving to national institutions, and external economic pressures.
Taylor pledged the organization will continue exploring “strategies and tactics” to encourage more local giving.
Howard Packowitz can be reached at [email protected]
