Marquette Food Co-op workers pose for a check passing with Andrew Rickauer, center, left, of the Marquette County United Way. (Photo courtesy of the Marquette Food Co-op)

MARQUETTE — The annual Round Up at the Register campaign to raise money for the United Way of Marquette County kicked off at the Marquette Food Co-op last week, with a goal to raise $5,000 to benefit local community organizations, organizer said in an announcement.

Throughout the holiday season, cashiers will be asking customers to round their shopping total to the next full dollar, with proceeds directly benefiting local programs and services supported by the United Way. Donations can also be made while shopping online at shop.marquettefood.coop.

“The co-op exists to meet a need in our community, as does the United Way of Marquette County,” said MFC Outreach Director Sarah Monte in the announcement. “Rounding up is one small way we can make a huge impact in our community, together. Please join us in helping out our friends and neighbors – a few cents each time you shop can make a world of difference.”

Andrew Rickauer, executive director of the United Way of Marquette County, said 2020 has been a challenging year and that the UW is grateful for the community’s ongoing support.

“United Way is here to serve our community and to keep it strong,” Rickauer said in the release. “We serve about 25 percent of the county population with the generous support from the community. This year the need is greater than ever before and every donation stays local to help those in need in our community.”

The United Way of Marquette County supports 28 local and regional charity organizations across Marquette County, funding programming and services for our area youth and elderly, as well as those seeking basic needs such as food, shelter, and medical assistance. This year, people can also donate through UW’s “Text-to-Give” program. Text “UNITEDMQT” to 44321. Learn more at www.uwmqt.org.