POCATELLO — The United Way of Southeastern Idaho's campaign has kicked off to a good start thanks to donations from local groups throughout the area.

During the UWSEI's campaign kickoff last Tuesday, Portneuf Health Trust presented a check of $135,000 that will go toward United Way's Community Giving Campaign, which helps fund healthrelated programs of local nonprofits throughout Southeastern Idaho.

In addition, both Citizens Community Bank and Idaho Central Credit Union donated $2,500 each in support of these programs that help thousands of people in a seven-county region become healthier and more financially stable.

"We are excited to introduce our United Way of Southeastern Idaho campaign theme for the next two years — Teaming up for Tomorrow 2025," said Wendi Ames, UWSEI's director of donor and community engagement. "We are teaming up with powerful partners today to create a healthier, more financially stable and educated Southeastern Idaho tomorrow."

Some of the nonprofit organizations these funds go toward include Boys & Girls Club of Portneuf Valley, Freedom Landing Zone, Pocatello Free Clinic, after-school programs and more.

Ames explained that last year they raised $430,000 and met 71 percent of their ask, and that with the introduction of a three-year campaign, United Way will be increasing that asking percentage up to 77 percent for 2022 and has set a goal to raise 90 percent by the end of 2025.

Already several businesses and individuals have added to this campaign, with the Simplot Golf Tournament raising $12,000, Peterson Ink raising $5,949, Allstate Giving Campaign raising $7,200, D & S Electrical raising $2,500, and individual donations reaching about $5,000.

"We're doing really well with the donations that we received today," Ames said on Tuesday. "We are kicking off the campaign with $175,000 in the pot. It's such a great feeling to have everyone together."

For anyone interested N in donating to the Community Giving CampaignH,E AR contact Ames at wendi@Octobe unitedwaysei.org.