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United Way hoping for “Last-Minute Lethbridge” phenomenon

Dec 14, 2016 | 11:23 AM

LETHBRIDGE – The United Way of Lethbridge and South Western Alberta admits it’s a bold goal — but it’s counting on the city’s reputation of coming through at the last minute.

The agency wants to raise $50,000 by the end of December. So far $7,000 has come in. In a news release executive director Trudy Carrels said she hopes the phenomenon known as “Last Minute Lethbridge” will come through to put the campaign over the top as the United Way wraps up its 75th year.

“Residents can fill an entire theatre or a hockey rink seemingly moments before an event begins. It proves that our community can do things quickly,” she said.

Carrels says Lethbridge is in the top five in Canada for the percentage of income people give. The agency says it can meet its target if 750 people donate $75 each.

United Way partner agencies are seeing an increased demand for services, Carrels said. Funding requests this year have come in at more than $1.2 million.

People can donate at www.lethbridgeunitedway.ca or in person at 1277 – 3 Ave. S. They can also mail in donations, or by credit card over the phone.