GREENFIELD — Patriciaann “Patty” Pirog hasn’t always had the easiest life, and she talked, through tears, about some of her trials at the Franklin County Chamber of Commerce breakfast on Friday morning.
“No matter where you come from and no matter what you need, we’re all the same to the United Way of Franklin County,” said its annual campaign chair.
Pirog, who will lead the effort to raise “as much money as possible” this year, said it was only seven years ago that she and her children were considered homeless and she needed the services of the United Way and its partners.
She said she had a 50-plus-mile commute to work, and was not making much money. She said, having to stop periodically to take a breath, that she had to choose, at times, between heat, food and gas for her drive.
“The United Way’s generosity through donor support to all types of programs helped me — food pantries, fuel assistance, child care,” she said. “I am proof that people can have rough times, even when they do everything right. I am proof that the United Way works for all of us.”
Pirog said the campaign’s theme this year is “Dear Franklin County,” and the nonprofit is asking people to write letters to Franklin County, telling it how much they love it, what’s great about it and what needs improvement.
“The United Way needs each of you,” she said. “That’s how it provides the help and support to those who need it. It makes a difference each year in the lives of children, veterans, seniors and the community.
“Be the next trailblazer,” she continued. “You have a stake in Franklin County, because you’re here.”
Pirog said the United Way decided not to set a goal this year, because based on the requests it has already received, it needs three times what it typically gives. In past years, a goal was set, but this year the agency just plans to “keep going until it raises as much as it can.”
The campaign kicked off this summer. United Way Executive Director Kelly Brigham-Steiner said there is a significant need in health, education, legal aid, finance and more, when it comes to the people the campaign helps.
Last year, the campaign raised more than $600,000. According to the agency, 85 percent of the money it raises goes to programs, 12 percent to administrative costs and 3 percent to fundraising costs.
“The theme shows that we can love our dear Franklin County,” Brigham-Steiner said, “while recognizing that there is still a need for our collective support.”
For more about the United Way of Franklin County or to donate to the campaign, visit: uw-fc.org.
Reach Anita Fritz at 413-772-0261, ext. 269 or afritz@recorder.com.