The United Way of the Flint Hills Campaign will be kicking off next week, however, it will do so without the traditional campaign kickoff event.
United Way Director Mickey Edwards announced via a news release Thursday that the United Way has chosen to cancel the kickoff event due to the rising number of local COVID-19 cases. Edwards says it was not an easy decision to make, especially after the United Way had to cancel many staple events last year due to COVID-19.
The kickoff was scheduled to take place next Thursday inside the Kress Center as part of the Emporia Area Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours event. Edwards says they did try to enact some sort of mitigation plan, however, it would be nearly impossible given the number of individuals planning to attend, the size of the venue and the fact that food and drinks were to be served.
Edwards says while disappointing, she feels they have made the best decision for the safety of United Way staff and community members.
Despite the kickoff’s cancellation, Edwards says the United Way will still hold its scheduled drive-thru food drive Tuesday, Sept. 14 from 4:30 pm to 6 pm on the northwest corner of the Lyon County Fairgrounds. Edwards says she is excited for the food drive to return after having a significant impact last year.
She says the need for food and assistance is still as significant as it was last year.
The United Way Campaign will officially begin next Thursday, Aug. 19. Last year’s campaign generated more than $444,000 for a variety of community partners.
