The United Way of the Bradford Area has reached 45 percent of its $340,000 goal.

The board of directors, collectively serving as this year’s co-chairs, said they are “proud of the giving that our community has provided us so far.”

“’Catch the Giving Spirit’ could not be more appropriate for a campaign theme this year,” said Jodie Wagner. “We need everyone to join us in our efforts until we reach our monetary goal…which will enable so many of our local non-profits the opportunity to continue to provide the programs and services they do with support from the UWBA.”

Wagner says this time of year is difficult, as the board is in the process of reviewing the request for proposals submitted by the local agencies for funding during the next calendar year.

“I can tell you that currently – just in applications submitted from two of our four funding streams – we have requests totaling nearly $400,000. As you can see, we (the Board) are already faced with tough decisions; not reaching our goal this year could be detrimental to some.”

The local United Way will continue solicitation efforts through Dec. 15, and will use the time until Jan. 5 to make follow-ups and conclude the campaign.

“I hope to be announcing to you all that we not only met our monetary goal, we surpassed it,” said Mandi Wilton Davis, executive director. “That is obviously what we strive for, because the need is so great.”

The United Way is also preparing for its annual Soup Lunch, which is scheduled for Nov. 10. Hungry supporters may order a 12-ounce bowl of soup, which also comes with crackers and a homemade treat, for $5. Orders may be placed until the end of the day on Wednesday. Davis encouraged placing orders by emailing admin@uwbanews.org or calling 368-6181.