The United Way of Burlington and Greater Hamilton has surpassed its 2009 fundraising goal by $6,000.

A grassroots push and a last-minute donation from ArcelorMittal Dofasco edged the campaign over its target.

Just hours before the total was announced, it looked as though the agency would fall short of its goal for the first time since its 2004 campaign.

ArcelorMittal came through late in the afternoon with $100,000. The company donated $800,000 in total to the 2009 campaign.

The United Way hoped to raise $6.94 million in Hamilton and Burlington, but the recession, fewer corporate and workplace contributions and donors handing over cash to help with Haiti relief made it a struggle.

The success was announced last night at Carmen's Banquet Centre.

"I feel absolutely incredible," said Hamilton campaign chairperson Anne Bermingham. "I can't believe it; I'm still shaking. It's been such hard work and I just feel so proud of what everyone's done and so grateful to the community."

The organization, which provides funding to 72 area agencies, had set a goal of $4.86 million in Hamilton and $2.08 million in Burlington. An extra $3,000 was raised in each community, although Burlington campaign chairperson Gaston Germain expects there will be more to come once numbers are finalized.

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United Way passes $6.94m goal