The calendar year may be wrapping up, but the United Way of West Central Mississippi is continuing its yearly fundraising campaign through the New Year.

At the beginning of the campaign, the United Way set a goal to raise $1.235 million, and will continue its quest to hit that total in January. The campaign has gone well so far, but the staff are waiting on a few businesses who won’t make their donations until January.

“We’ve still got a good way to go before we get numbers complied together,” McNeal said.

In their efforts to make the goal, the organization has ensured convenient ways to raise money, especially through the holiday season, that will go toward funding their 22 partner agencies.

When shopping for groceries or finding the perfect Christmas present online, people can give back while also completing their to-do list. There are four easy options to use when giving back, and the holiday season is a great time of year to consider those who are in need.

“During the holiday we want to have all the opportunities out there where people can take advantage of shopping and still giving back,” McNeal said.

People don’t even have to leave their home to give. By texting Promote to 41444, there is the option of donating right from their cell phone. Donations start at $10 and can be made in any amount above that. Donators can also choose where their money will go.

“It can either be United Way or you can select one of our 22 agencies,” McNeal said.

Amazon Smile is a tool for the online shopper to give back locally. By using an Amazon account to visit smile.amazon.com, shoppers can select the local United Way as their charitable organization of choice. The organization will then receive a donation from any eligible item the shopper buys. There is no need to create a new Amazon account, all wish lists, shopping carts and gift registries can be accessed with Amazon Smile.

By creating an account on goodsearch.com and selecting the local United Way as the designated nonprofit organization, a donation will be made anytime the user searches or shops the web.

Those who use a rewards card while they grocery shop at Kroger can sign up for Kroger Community Rewards. Cardholders can enter their email and password at kroger.com/communityrewards and select the local United Way as their nonprofit organization. From then on whenever the shopper uses their card, money goes to the organization.

“We’re just trying to make it as easy as possible for anybody who would like to help because we know there’s a lot going on this time of year,” McNeal said.

The tax season is coming to a close at the end of the year, and it’s good to remember that donations are tax deductible.