United Way services benefit residents
By Sylvie Belmond belmond@theacorn.com

About 50 Moorpark residents use the 211 social services helpline every month, according to Wally Bobkiewicz, board vice chair of United Way of Ventura County.

The easytoremember telephone number connects people with community services and volunteer opportunities in Ventura County. Callers can get referrals to health and human services in the region.

The 211 helpline was established by United Way of Ventura County, Interface Children Family Services and First 5 Ventura County about two years ago.

Bobkiewicz, city manager of Santa Paula, came to the Moorpark City Council meeting last week to thank local officials, city employees and residents who contributed to recent fundraising efforts for the United Way of Ventura County.

United Way's goal is to improve the lives of people in the community by focusing on the underlying causes of their problems and supporting preventative programs.

Bobkiewicz said United Way exists to help local residents in time of need.

A Freeze Fund was set up by United Way of Ventura County in partnership with the Ventura County Community Foundation in January 2007 to help families make ends meet after unusually cold temperatures damaged agricultural crops throughout Ventura County.

More than $700,000 was donated to the Freeze Fund from businesses, individuals, and California foundations. The money provided rental and utility bill assistance as well as food and basic supplies such as diapers and baby formula to farm workers, some of whom live in Moorpark, Bobkiewicz said.

The organization also connects local volunteers and nonprofit groups through the website www.VolunteerVenturaCounty.org.