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Paula Obermark, United Way executive director, said the hanging bags are one way to build awareness of services provided in the community, as well as money.
"The kids did a great job and we can't thank them enough for their participation," she said. "Unfortunately due to a limited number of students available from Washington High School we didn't get to all of the homes."
The canvass was conducted within the city limits and neighboring subdivisions. Volunteer drivers transported the teens.
A total of 138 students from St. Francis Borgia Regional High School participated, along with 39 WHS students.
"We just ran out of time to get everywhere we planned." Obermark said. "We ask anyone who received a hanging envelope and those who did not to consider mailing in a donation."
Donations are down from last year's canvass which brought in about $6,737.
Obermark hopes to raise another $2,500 from the mail-in envelopes. Donations should be mailed to Franklin County Area United Way, P.O. Box 3, Washington, MO 63090.
"I know every year we say no gift is too small, but it's really true," she said. "The need is greater than ever this year."
Obermark said her office and the United Way agencies are receiving more calls than ever before from people seeking assistance.
The United Way officially kicked off its campaign the first week of September. It is the single largest annual fundraiser in Franklin County. The 2009 goal is $861,000.
To thank students for their participation, pizza parties were held at both schools after the drive. All of the teens who participated also received a United Way T-shirt compliments of the campaign sponsors.
"We can't thank the teens enough. This canvass wouldn't be possible without their involvement and hard work," she said.
