In 1962, the United Fund of Norwich and the Community Chest of Groton, The first campaign in 1962, called the United Fund, raised $427,885 for programs at 34 agencies providing health, welfare and character-building services. That represented $38,000 more than the two separate agencies raised in total the prior year. Clearly, a successful enterprise had begun. In 1975, the organization changed its name to United Way of Southeastern Connecticut and was raising nearly $1,000,000 each year to support the community. In 1988, it was recognized that area shelters, pantries, soup kitchens and child care centers needed a center to purchase food in bulk. As a result, the United Way Labor Department Food Center was initiated. Today, the food center, known as the Gemma E. Moran United Way/ Labor Food Center, distributes food to help serve the equivalent of 1.5 million meals per year through 85 member food distribution sites. In 2008 United Way raised more than $6.9 million for health and human services in New London County. United Way supports 80 partner programs and initiatives that target our four priority areas: Community Wellness – Ensures that Healthcare will be available to adults and children, provide community base, family-focused behavioral health services for children, and support substance abuse treatment and education with a priority on young adults. Thriving Children – To keep children safe from abuse and neglect, provide affordable, quality child care and pre-school opportunities, help children gain a healthy start in life, build relationships with caring adults, and help youth stay safe during non-school hours. Basic Needs – Helps individuals gain access to and retain affordable and safe housing.  To include support services for individuals who are confined to their homes or institutions and provide food, clothing, shelter, transportation, and information referral services. Training & Education for Jobs – To provide opportunities to help individuals return to the classroom and develop skills to provide opportunities for a secure financial future. Through the ongoing support of hundreds of companies and organizations in southeastern Connecticut, combined with the generous gifts of employees and residents, United Way of Southeastern Connecticut is able to improve lives. Together we can make real lasting changes right here in our community by Living United and creating real, lasting change. Think of WE BEFORE ME! That's the United Way! If you would like to learn more about United Way of Southeastern Connecticut and our community, consider becoming a volunteer for United Way's fund distribution process.