United Way reached the 30 percent mark this week celebrating the achievements due to the hard work of local Publix Super Market stores. The southeastern chain reported a 15 percent increase raising a total $243,000 throughout Marion County.

"We were hoping to reach the 30 percent mark by the end of September," said Dave Fechtman, volunteer campaign chairman. "We are a week ahead of schedule and it only shows how our community is rallying together during this time of need when some many of our neighbors are hurting. 

Locally, last year Publix ranked as the second largest contributor to the United Way of Marion County behind the Marion County School System. The total raised includes employee contributions and a $.70 corporate match. Publix is a National Corproate Leader and supports United Way in the states that it does business in due to its mission statement of being responsible citizens in the communities it serves.