The United Way of Cayuga County is launching its 2025-26 campaign with a full day of food, family fun, and community connection on Saturday, September 20.
The Campaign Kickoff Food Truck Rodeo & Member Agency Fair will take place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Town of Owasco Shelter. The event also serves as a drop-off site for the Countywide Personal Care Drive, which supports food pantries, shelters, and soup kitchens across Cayuga County.
Attendees can expect live music from Perform 4 Purpose, an impressive lineup of food trucks—including Pete’s Treats, Classic Cones, Dugan’s Country Grill, Between Your Buns, and Real Pit BBQ—and dozens of local nonprofits offering games, crafts, and giveaways.
Meet the nonprofits your donations support
Organizations like the Auburn Rescue Mission, Cayuga Community Health Network, Hospice of CNY & the Finger Lakes, and many more will be onsite to show how United Way donations help make their programs possible. Visitors can participate in a “passport program” by visiting each agency table for a chance to win prize bundles.
Raffles, raffles, and more raffles
More than a dozen themed baskets will be up for grabs, including:
- “Date Night Basket” from Perform 4 Purpose
- “Sip & Savor” wine gift set from Matthew House
- “A Night at the Theater” with tickets from Auburn Public Theater
- “Ready for Camp” package from the Auburn YMCA
Raffle tickets can be purchased or earned by donating personal care items or answering trivia questions. Some items include books, kitchen gadgets, and even a superhero-themed mini-golf team entry.
Personal Care Drive & Coin Snake Challenge
This year’s drive aims to collect 3,000 new, full-sized hygiene products for neighbors in need. Donors will receive raffle entries for each item contributed.
The community can also help grow the “Coin Snake” by donating loose change. Last year’s snake stretched over 60 feet; the goal this year is 75.
How to help
Can’t attend? You can still support the campaign:
- Mail donations to: United Way of Cayuga County, 2 State St., Suite 2, Auburn, NY 13021
- Donate online: GiveSmart link
- Follow updates: Facebook and Instagram
For questions, contact Campaign & Marketing Manager Julisa Stone-Szpaicher at [email protected] or call 315-253-9741.
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