United Way of Santa Clara County has had its $11 million in debts eliminated thanks to recent donations by Bill and Melinda Gates and the David and Lucile Packard Foundation.

A few weeks ago, the chapter came close to shutting down operations because of an $11 million shortfall in money promised its 104 member agencies. The group has received more than $14 million in recent donations, however.

Microsoft's Gates and his wife, Melinda, gave $5 million to the United Way chapter and the David and Lucile Packard Foundation contributed $2 million this past week -- on top of the $7.1 million recently donated by other high-tech leaders and foundations.

"It makes my heart sing that the 'haves' are stepping up to the plate," said Mary Ellen Chell, executive director of Cupertino Community Services, which provides clothing, food and shelter to the homeless.

The United Way chapter's money woes have been blamed on mismanagement and a lack of donations from technology workers. Earlier this month, the board fired CEO Eleanor Jacobs for unrealistic fundraising reports.

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