The Chilton County United Way is just $15,000 short of reaching its goal, according to the most recent count.

United Way Board chairman Curtis Smith said incoming money has slowed down but he still feels good about meeting the $200,000 goal.

“We got off to an early start,” he said. “Chilton County has always come through, and we hope they’ll do it again.”

The main reason for Smith’s optimism is the fact that United Way is still waiting to hear from some businesses and industries whose anticipated contributions have not been added to the total amount.

The fundraising campaign ends Dec. 31, but members of the organization may not know the final total until after the New Year.

Chilton County’s United Way assists 26 agencies that in turn help less fortunate children and adults in the county.

“If we reach our goal, we’ll be able to at least do for them what we did last year,” Smith said.

Smith noted that contributions from this year’s Dollar Day fundraiser doubled those of last year. Dollar Day provides a way for students to donate to United Way through their local schools.

Also, the United Way will sponsor a benefit singing Jan. 2 at Chilton County High School. The singing is held annually in memory of Billy Lawrence.

For more information, call 755-5875.

—Scott Mims can be reached at scott.mims@clantonadvertiser.com.