CALDWELL COUNTY, Texas - The United Way of Hays and Caldwell Counties experienced its most profitable fundraiser to date.

The 9th annual "TASTE 2018" event raised approximately $15,000 through a silent auction, another $5,000 from event ticket sales, and $25,000 more through the organization's sponsors.

That money will be added to the general fund that provides dollars toward the 18 area nonprofit partners the agency supports.

United Way's resources benefit more than 50,000 individuals and families through health, education, and financial programs. Within these channels, the agency's objectives include increasing school readiness, job training, and access to quality health care.​

President Michelle Harper said United Way of Hays and Caldwell Counties specifically focuses on serving a variety of people, from a child needing literacy help, to a senior who may need hot meals delivered. The money raised at the annual "TASTE" fundraiser supports these goals.

"In Austin, they may have a focus on really getting people out of poverty, where here in Hays and Caldwell counties, we're really about making sure that everyone who is in need has the programs and services that they need. The dollars that we are able to put back into the community really supports anyone," Harper said.

The organization is already thinking about next year's TASTE event and they're planning on making it even bigger and better.