The United Way of South Central Georgia kicked off its annual fund drive this week, and we urge everyone to help.

The local United Way helps fund 17 local agencies: The American Red Cross, the Betty Jo Roach United Way Community Center, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Boy Scouts of America (the Alapaha and Southwest Georgia Councils), Carousel House, Child Care Resource & Referral of South Central Georgia, Christian Kitchen, Girl Scouts of Southwest Georgia, Kids Advocacy Coalition, Literacy Volunteers of America, Meals on Wheels, the Needy Children's Fund, Santa's Helpers, Special Olympics, Tift County Child Abuse Council and Tifton Soup Kitchen.

No one would argue the importance of agencies which feed the hungry, care for Alzheimer's patients, provide after-school care for hundreds of children and work to prevent child abuse. But the need is greater than ever this year because of the economy, and while most people have been affected in one way or another the need is still there.

Please, when United Way representatives visit your workplace or civic group, consider making a pledge or just a one-time donation. A gift to United Way benefits the entire community. It is a way to directly touch the lives of many of your neighbors.