People are invited to attend a breakfast at the Ralph Wilson Youth Club on Friday when the United Way of Central Texas begins its campaign to raise money.

After breakfast, volunteers will be sent to the agencies, then will meet again for lunch at the Temple Free Clinic.

Executive Director Ann Thompson is hoping to have more than 300 volunteers.

“It’s going to be a tough year, so we need everyone to step up and help,” Ms. Thompson said.

The campaign cabinet will be determining the campaign’s goal on Monday.

“The community always seems to step up and fulfill the need,” Ms. Thompson said.

United Way provides funding to agencies such as the Peaceable Kingdom Retreat for Children in Youngsport that provides special education classrooms for surrounding school districts. They offer lifestyle training through outdoor activities on 170 acres on the Lampasas River.

“We allow special education kids to get hands-on learning outside of the classroom,” said Scott Simmonds, executive director.

Peaceable Kingdom receives 5 percent of its annual budget from the United Way.

The Temple Meals on Wheels also receives funding from the United Way. This agency provides daily meals and human contact to senior citizens.

“Most are on extremely expensive medication and the United Way helps to step in and pay so they can have a healthy meal a day,” said Patsy McCurdy, the Temple Meals on Wheels coordinator.

Lonestar Legal Aid provides legal services to those who cannot afford it. Cases usually include disabled seniors being exploited by caregivers or those being abuse by family members.

The $20,000 Lonestar receives from the United Way pays for the volunteer coordinator’s salary, according to Nicolas Serna, managing attorney.

Lonestar’s four attorneys provide services to five counties but are not able to help all that apply. The volunteer coordinator recruits private attorneys who can take these cases pro bono.

@temple-telegram.com