Published: December 09, 2007 12:57 pm         

County Way wins along with FSU basketball players

PharmaCare again gives back to community

FROSTBURG — John H. Balch, president and owner of PharmaCare of Frostburg, recently announced the continuation of the company’s offering to County United Way through a unique project with Frostburg State University’s basketball teams.

PharmaCare of Frostburg has pledged, for the second consecutive year, to donate $50 for each game the Frostburg State University men’s and women’s basketball teams win this season.

“PharmaCare’s idea was a creative way to connect the FSU community, local business and County United Way,” said Jennifer Hare, PharmaCare’s marketing and public relations director. “It provides an opportunity to work with FSU’s athletes while giving back to the community through County United Way, and the programs it supports,” she said.

Last year the men’s and women’s teams totaled 25 wins, and PharmaCare of Frostburg donated $1,250 to the United Way of Allegany County.

Donation and fundraising efforts like Balch’s increase the abilities of the United Way and its services. In 2006 alone more than 24,000 children, adults, and families in Allegany County received direct assistance, support and education through programs and various agencies funded by the United Way of Allegany County. Because of last year’s fundraising efforts, thousands more will benefit this year.

“I think it is great that a local business wants to support us and the County United Way at the same time,” said Jody Pepple, head coach of FSU’s women’s basketball team. “We will do our part by putting as many ‘Ws’ in the win column as we possibly can.”

“It sounds like a unique way for Mr. Balch to support the United Way and also bring some recognition to our men’s and women’s basketball programs,” said Webb Hatch, the men’s head basketball coach. “Our success on the court will now help other people in Allegany County who are less fortunate than us. Sounds like a win-win for everyone!”

For more information on how you can participate with donation efforts and local fundraising programs, contact the United Way of Allegany County at (301) 722-2700.

Contributions may also be made through company payroll deduction, personal check, credit card or even gifts of stock. Donations may be mailed to The United Way of Allegany County, P.O. Box 307, Cumberland, MD 21501.