With two weeks to go in its campaign, Portage Plains United Way (PPUW) is closing in on its fundraising target.

PPUW executive director Mandy Dubois says there's been a surge in donations recently, pushing the drive to the 75 per cent mark of the $247,500 goal. That leaves the campaign about $60,000 shy of the target with the Dec. 31 end date approaching.

"I wasn't as hopeful (recently) that we were going to reach our goal, but with this recent surge, I am thinking it's a lot more possible that we are going to make it," Dubois says. "I just really hope people continue to give, so we can reach it."

"...Our community continually steps up to support United Way. I think it's because they see the value of supporting our 11 member agencies with one donation."

PPUW's fundraising campaign goes to support 11 non-profit organizations in the community. The agencies inform PPUW each year about the amount of funding needed for their programs and services, Dubois says, and that forms the fundraising target.

"If we make it to 100 per cent, then our member agencies receive 100 per cent of the funding they require," Dubois explains. "If we only get to, for example, 90 per cent, then they only get 90 per cent of the funds they need for those programs and services."

"It really is a trickle effect, and can result in programs or services being cut, reduced or eliminated,” she continues. “And we really don't want to see that."