With an increase in the demand for its services, the United Way increased its fundraising goal this year to $3.2 million, a small increase over last year's $3.1 million.

The increase, according to Executive Director Frances Hallworth, is needed to keep up with the increased demand that has been brought on by the current economic situation across Niagara.

"There have been increased needs in the community and a definite increase in services being used across the board," she said.

Money raised so far has primarily come from employee workplace deduction programs. More than 250 companies participate in the program and usually generate more than 70 per cent of the United Way's funds. Despite the looming economic crisis, Hallworth said that to date, they haven't seen an effect in their fundraising.

Another source of funds for the agency are leadership donors -- people that give $1,000 or more. This year, Gale's Gas Bars created a Limited Leadership Challenge, where the company will match any new leadership donor's contribution dollar for dollar, up to $50,000. If an existing leadership donor increases their donation by 10 per cent or more, then Gale's will match that amount as well. Hallworth described this new program as a big help to the campaign.

"It certainly is a boost, we've had to remain optimistic and work harder because there are lots of challenges in the economy right now. This was a substantial gift to the United Way," she said.

The campaign continues through to the first week of December.