After a record campaign last year, the United Way of Mower County is setting its sights higher.

The United Way announced a goal of just more than $1.2 million for its 2015-16 campaign after it met its $1.1 million campaign for the 2014-15 campaign by raising about $1.14 million.

The number of individuals living below the poverty level continues to increase, with the number currently hovering around 16 percent in Mower County, according to a press release.

While needs continue to increase, Executive Director Diane Baker stresses the importance of donating.

“Every dollar donated makes a difference,” she said in a press release. “Every dollar donated changes a life.”

In 2000, Mower County ranked 38th out of the 87 Minnesota counties in terms of individuals living below the poverty level. By 2012, that percentage had increased and Mower County dropped to 72nd out of 87.

With that growing need, United Way Board of Directors Chair Paul Kuehneman said it’s important for people to give back.

“Many talented agencies are doing excellent work to assist Mower County residents in meeting their various needs,” he said in a press release. “I’ve been involved with this United Way for over 10 years and the demand on those organizations services has only increased. We, as the United Way Board, are constantly looking for additional ways to serve our county within our four impact areas — education, income, health and basic needs.”

In recent years, the United Way has faced an increasing need for funds from local groups and services. Though the United Way has garnered more donations over the past five years — United Way staff broke the $1 million donation mark in 2011 and raised $1.03 million last year — 56 organizations have asked the United Way for more money each year.

The campaign had some big donations last year: Quality Pork Processors raised $143,362, Hormel Foods Corp.’s corporate office pledged $275,915 and Hormel employees pledged a record $150,895.

The United Way is urging people to consider giving to this year’s campaign.

United Way officials said donating $2.50 per week would provide nutritious, easy to prepare meals over the weekend for one hungry child in Mower County for an entire school year. Donating $10 every week provides job training and employment support for two adults in Mower County.

The United Way’s campaign season runs from September to March, and funds raised will continue to change lives in Mower County. To donate, visit the “Take Action” section of our website, www.uwmower.org, or send cash or check to P.O. Box 605, Austin, MN 55912.