HIGH POINT – Ellen Whitlock said she appreciates all the diners who parted with some of their hard-earned money Tuesday so her nonprofit agency and other ones can keep helping those in need during tough times.

“In this economic climate, with so many people having experienced a loss of jobs or reduced work schedule, we are seeing more and more people look to United Way agencies for services and support,” said Whitlock, executive director with Senior Resources of Guilford.

The annual Dine Out Day for the United Way of Greater High Point gave people having breakfast, lunch or dinner at nearly four dozen local restaurants a chance to contribute through their menu orders. United Way will receive an average of 10 percent of the daily sales from the participating restaurants. The proceeds will go toward this year’s United Way overall fundraising campaign to raise $4.5 million.

“For those us of who can still continue to enjoy a meal out at one of the generous restaurants who are supporting this effort, it’s gratifying to know that those funds will be used to help families in our community improve their self-sufficiency,” Whitlock said.

For example, the money raised through the Dine Out Day will filter down to allow Senior Resources of Guilford to take care of homebound and frail, low-income older adults, Whitlock said.

Tuesday was the fourth annual Dine Out Day. The fundraiser has grown in participation and donations because of the cooperation of city restaurants and generosity of diners, United Way reports.

In 2006, 11 restaurants participated and raised $2,088. Last year, 24 restaurants generated $5,141, the United Way reports.

Tuesday’s fundraiser involved 44 restaurants, and United Way should have a total for donations in the coming weeks.

“Our partner agencies are reporting record needs. And we are doing everything that we can in this tight time to help them meet those needs,” said Paige Mone, vice president for marketing and communications with the local United Way.

pjohnson@hpe.com | 888-3528