United Way is stretching to reach a fund raising campaign goal and Fellsmere Farms has stepped up and doubled the annual corporate gift to $15,000. Employees have also pledged $4500 through payroll deduction.

“This comes at a great time,” explained Michelle Malyn, United Way Director of Development, “in order to serve the thousands of county residents that are depending on our support of human services, we need to make and increase our campaign goals. This year’s campaign wraps up officially next week but we will certainly continue accepting gifts and use the dollars effectively.”

Fellsmere Farms has been donating to United Way at least since 1991 giving a sum of $108,555 in corporate gifts and $130,431 in employee giving for a total of over a quarter of a million dollars.

“Fellsmere Farms was one of our first business partners, they’ve supported our work for decades, not only by giving dollars but by donating fruit and providing volunteers for our Holiday Citrus Sale,” said Michael Kint, United Way CEO. “They are a wonderful example of caring corporate philanthropy.”

Sun Ag LLC manages the farm operations of Fellsmere Farms, which is the leading citrus producer in Indian River County.  The operations of the Fellsmere Farms’ lands date back to 1910 with the formation of Fellsmere Farms Company and the establishment of the City of Fellsmere in 1911.  For many years there has been a close symbiotic relationship between the Town of Fellsmere and Fellsmere Farms, with the Farm engaging up to 450 local workers.  Since 1977 Bernard Egan & Company has been a major partner in Fellsmere Farms, and has been a consistent contributor to the United Way.

“Sun Ag is especially proud of its many employees who have contributed generously to the annual campaign for United Way,” commented Michael Monroe, General Manager.

United Way of Indian River County is encouraging people in the community to LIVE UNITED by donating to the annual campaign which concludes March 5, 2013, helping spread the word about programs and services that help people in need, and volunteering their time and talent to a local cause. For more information on how you can LIVE UNITED and help create a brighter future for those in need in our community, please call 772-567-8900 or visit our websitewww.unitedwayirc.org.