By Shavonne Potts
spotts@salisburypost.com
SALISBURY – Cheryl McLeod used to work 40 hours a week as a home health care provider and recently her hours have dwindled.
On Monday, McLeod went to the Salvation Army to inquire about assistance for her utility bill.
The Rowan United Way campaign is under way and community contributions are used to fund programs that help those who need assistance, like McLeod.
The Salvation Army is one of 16 member agencies of the United Way.
McLeod’s children have also gotten Christmas presents through the Salvation Army’s Angel Tree program.
She’s appreciative of the contributions that come in during the campaign.
“It’s a blessing to us to help out where it’s needed in the community,” she said.
McLeod said times are difficult. She has been in the home health care business for nearly seven years. In the beginning of the year McLeod had a full work week, but now only receives 28 hours a week.
She has lost some of her clients who’ve died.
“Not everybody that comes here and gets help has always had to resort to agencies for help,” she said.
“It sets you back and you have to adjust,” she said of her lack of hours.
The Salvation Army not only helps people with utility bills and Christmas gifts, but people who need assistance with medications and rent, said Lt. Josh Morse.
“We are seeing an increase in giving,” Morse said.
Often the people who give make contributions are likely some who the next month may need help themselves.
Much of the giving comes from families who are considered middle-to-low class.
He encourages people who need assistance to contact the Salvation Army.
As of Oct. 10, the United Way has reached 44 percent of its $1.78 million campaign goal.
Campaign volunteers meet every other week to hear updates on how individual campaigns progress.
In 2011, United Way agencies served more than 75,300 people in the community.
“Whether it is the Red Cross responding to a fire or Family Crisis giving an abused woman a safe place to stay, all 16 agencies work hard to meet the needs in our community and that is why the support of the campaign is so important, said Jackie Harris, campaign and marketing director.
She said the United Way wants to continue to provide these much needed services to the citizens of Rowan County.
To make a contribution, contact your company’s campaign chair or the Rowan County United Way at 704-633-1802.
For more information about the Salvation Army, call 704-636-6491.