What is the value of a penny? Or a nickel? Most of us would say they’re worth little or nothing. In some cities, pennies are considered truly useless and worthless, and are not even used any longer. In this community, pennies — and nickels and dimes and quarters — still have value and are much needed.

This Friday from 7:30 to 10:30 a.m., the United Way of the Greater Miss-Lou will prove the value of small change when we have a road block to collect funds for social services and human services agencies located in Adams County and Concordia Parish. Your United Way supports 18 agencies serving clients in 14 local counties and parishes. Those agencies need our help now more than ever. The cost of heating a home has increased 40 percent to 50 percent since 2002. Many local families struggle with those increases.

Every week, the United Way receives calls from individuals and families in need of housing and other basic necessities. Every agency that assists with basic services — food, rent, utilities and transportation — has been overwhelmed with calls for the last six months. In addition, United Way programs provide food, companionship and care for the elderly plus good role models, guidance, education and healthy activities for our youth.

Local volunteers will be ready to take your donations of coins, cash and checks at three locations on Friday from 7:30 to 10:30 a.m. If you’re driving through Vidalia or on your way into or out of Natchez, you’ll find us on the curb with buckets in hand. In Natchez, look for us at U.S. 61 South and Pitchford Drive near Bad Boy Buggies and at U.S. 61 North at Morgantown Road near Natchez Market and United Mississippi Bank.

In Vidalia, you’ll find us on Carter Street near Concordia Bank and the Post Office.

Last year we collected $2,400 in three hours at two locations. Of that, $1,200 was in one dollar bills and $800 in coins. So empty out your dashboard containers, your pockets and your coin purses and help us to care for your neighbors in need. If you have a free hour or two on Friday morning, come put and help us. Call the United Way office at 601-442-1081 to volunteer. Live United. Give. Advocate. Volunteer.

Marsha Colson is the director of the United Way of the Greater Miss-Lou.