United Way London and Middlesex is in danger of falling short of its $9.1-million campaign goal.
With just a little over a month before the 2015 campaign wraps up, officials say they are down by $250,000.
Campaign Chair Anna Lacobelli says she can see the goal is still within reach and is appealing to the public for more donations.
“Our Campaign is not where we’d like it to be, but support for the work of United Way is strong, and our volunteers remain deeply committed to ensuring we get there," says Lacobelli. "Now we just need the broader community to join us by “Sharing the Love” through a direct donation or fundraiser in their school or workplace. Whether a corporate cheque or a toonie casual day, every donation will push us closer to our goal, and more importantly, improve lives right here in London and Middlesex County."
Officials don't believe there is any one cause for the drop in donations. They cite a variety of factors such as economic uncertainty, changing community conditions, and workforce shifts for the possible fundraising target miss.
“We are hearing that while employment levels have returned to pre-recession levels, economic uncertainty remains and is creating a difficult environment for many - donors included; but that is precisely why meeting this goal is so important,” says Andrew Lockie, CEO United Way London & Middlesex. "As families continue to feel the pinch of rising costs for groceries and utilities, the most vulnerable in our community are at the greatest risk of being left behind. We must do all that we can to prevent that from happening.”
Last year, more than 85,000 people in the community used a United Way funded program or service.
Donations to the United Way can be made at www.unitedwaylm.ca or by calling 519-438-1721.
Officials will announce the total amount of money raised through the 2015 campaign on March 5.