PADUCAH - A charity organization is asking local residents to help it continue serving the community during the COVID-19 emergency.

The United Way of Paducah-McCracken County says that although it has canceled or postponed several upcoming fundraising events to meet social distancing requirements, the organization will continue to work with its partners to serve the local community. In a Facebook post, the organization asks donors and volunteers to help provide services and stability to those in need. 

Here is the full statement:

"Paducah & McCracken Co. neighbors:

We are facing unprecedented circumstances regarding the coronavirus, COVID-19. We’re closely monitoring the situation by communicating regularly with our community partners.

In response to the ever growing needs of our most vulnerable community members, we have no doubt that our generous donors and volunteers will rise to the challenge. We know there will be ongoing resources needed for; childcare, food, financial stability, and healthcare. We will show up. We will make a difference and as always, we will #LiveUnited.

We have made the difficult decision to cancel or postpone upcoming local fundraising events, however we know there are immediate needs we can’t ignore.

The United Way of Paducah-McCracken County will address the emergent needs of our local community and will work with community partners to best serve our neighbors. We need your support. We have set up a way for you to easily give and, as always, you can rest assured that your dollars will go directly to our local community as we face this crisis together.

The time is now. To respond to emergent needs in Paducah-McCracken County text GIVE to 77513."

In addition to cash donations, the United Way says there are also some things residents can do to help alleviate some of the burden on those who are most vulnerable during this time. They advise everyone to only purchase the items they need, limit items to keep stocked for just a few days, and ask that anyone who can donate needed items to a local food bank.