United Fund has begun its 2011 drive to raise the goal of $80,000 in the Brewton and East Brewton area.

The group is already accepting donations to share with the 17 local organizations that receive the funds.

“We are focusing in on disaster relief, mental health and youth programs this year,” said Sandy English, president of the United Fund of Brewton and East Brewton. “We plan on making more personal contacts and be available for more answers to the questions asked about the different programs.”

The United Fund gives over 99 cents of every dollar it raises to the 17 member agencies listed.

“That means that the money raised here, will go back to work here, in the form of services for individuals and families who live in Brewton and East Brewton,” English said.

Those agencies involved are the Brewton Area YMCA to reach out to individuals and families by funding scholarships.

Organizations include the American Red Cross, East Escambia County Chapter; Girl Scouts, Deep South Council; Brewton Public Library; Escambia County Community Enabled Inc.; Escambia County Regional Child Advocacy Center; Brewton Parks and Recreation Department; Escambia County Mental Health Association; The Boy Scouts-Gulf Coast Council; East Brewton Youth Sports; Southwest Alabama Mental Health/Mental Retardation Board; Wheels of Wellness; Escambia County Cooperative Library System; the Alabama Cooperative Extension System; Disabled Children and Adults-Brewton Chapter; Hope Place Family Resource Center; the Christian Community Benevolent Fund.

“We hope that citizens of our area continue to give the support they have in past years,” English said. “We encourage everyone to do their fair share this year, and donate to the United Fund of Brewton and East Brewton.”