United Way of the Lowcountry helps improve housing opportunities by supporting the work of Lowcountry Habitat for Humanity.

"The sole reason Lowcountry Habitat for Humanity exists is to provide affordable housing, and by building three to four houses a year, we accomplish our goals," said Habitat's Brenda Dooley.

The United Way board of directors said Thursday gifts and pledges now total $1,801,807, or 64.4 percent of the organization's 2012 goal of $2.8 million.

To learn more about United Way, call 843-982-3040 or go to www.uwlowcountry.org. A secure online payment system is available.