The United Way of Perth Huron supported over 30,000 people last year via support of over 40 programs and services across the two counties which makes it the biggest funding source of social services outside of the government.
“Many people in our region are desperate for help,” said Ryan Erb, executive director of the United Way Perth Huron. “In Stratford alone, we supported over 300 people at the local Connection Centre, we also helped nearly 1,000 people in the region receive counselling services. The goal is growing each year, and we are seeing demands getting higher, and our partners are seeing their needs and wait lists growing, which increases our need to raise funds.”
Locally some funds will be used to help hire three more people for the Stratford Connection Centre, and those people will help the centre deal with the complexity of cases that are arising.
“The United Way has also launched United Housing last year,” said campaign Co-Chair Kristin Sainsbury. “That program aims to reduce poverty, and house people in need.”
“We are excited to announce that some announcements are coming shortly around United Housing programs in Stratford, Goderich and Exeter,” said Erb.
The annual United Way campaign kickoff will take place in Market Square from noon until 1:30 p.m. with a few hundred people expected to attend.
“We will be doing a lunch event,” said campaign Co-Chair John Wolfe. “The meal will feature a gourmet hot dog, coleslaw, cheese sting, a drink and a chocolate chip cookie.”
There will also be vegetarian and gluten-free options. Tickets cost $20 in advance or $25 at the campaign kickoff.
Tickets can be purchased by visiting perthhuron.unitedway.ca. The kickoff event will highlight the initiatives the United Way is supporting, and unveil the campaign goal, which is over $2 million.
