United Way of the Plains accepts Gov. Sebelius' request for statewide coordination

* United Way of the Plains establishes statewide Green for Greensburg Fund in partnership with United Ways across Kansas

WICHITA, Kan., May 8, 2007 -- United Way of the Plains announced that it has accepted Gov. Kathleen Sebelius' request to administer the Green for Greensburg Fund. This fund will serve as a central collection point for anyone wishing to make a monetary contribution to help tornado victims in the Greensburg, Kansas, area.

"We've already seen a tremendous outpouring of support for the residents of Greensburg, and I know they truly appreciate the thoughts and prayers of their fellow Kansans and of people all over the world," said Gov. Kathleen Sebelius.  "They face a tough road, but if we come together to support them and to provide the assistance they need to rebuild their lives, I know Greensburg will be rebuilt stronger and more vibrant than before.  That's why I ask everyone to support United Way in its efforts to help the victims of this horrible storm."

 "The Governor has asked United Way to administer this fund out of concern for coordination of fund-raising efforts," said Patrick J. Hanrahan, president of United Way of the Plains.  "We hope that individuals and groups already conducting fund raising will add their donations to the Green for Greensburg Fund so as to create a significant amount of money to assist in long-term recovery programs.   United Way of the Plains is working in conjunction with all United Ways around the state of Kansas to generate a statewide effort.

A disaster such as this requires the services of many organizations-especially for on-going assistance in the future. United Way is setting up this fund to provide a vehicle for that help. Types of services supported could include: counseling; medical services; vouchers for rent or utility assistance; or other services.

The Green for Greensburg Fund will be administered by United Way of the Plains with no administration charge; 100 percent of each gift will go to direct disaster recovery assistance. Donors should make checks payable to Green for Greensburg Fund, and mail to Green for Greensburg Fund, United Way of the Plains, 245 N. Water, Wichita, KS 67202.

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CONTACT: Delane Butler, Vice President of Marketing, 267-1321