The United Way Perth Huron kicked off its 2018 campaign with a barbecue in Listowel on Wednesday.
North Perth Community Committee Chair Shelley Blackmore and Campaign Co-chair Martin Ritsma helped unveil this year's goal of $1,444,625.
Ritsma said the United Way’s efforts to overcome issues like hunger and homelessness, youth mental health and social isolation, are helping create better lives for everyone.
United Way Perth-Huron is 100% local and supports almost 50 organizations and services across Perth and Huron Counties.
“As a school principal I saw many of these issues and it’s not something our community should be complacent about,” commented Martin Ritsma. “It’s so easy to make an impact by contributing towards programs that lead to better lives for everyone.”
“$1.446 million is a stretch from the money raised last year but it’s important,” said Shelley Blackmore, chair of the North Perth Community Committee. “This is the amount needed to support nearly 50 organizations and programs across Perth and Huron that collectively help over 32,000 people in our communities. We also want everyone to know there are 18 supported partners in North Perth who need your local support.”
“We really enjoyed saying hello to so many familiar faces from Listowel and North Perth,” said Executive Director Ryan Erb. “This community has really supported United Way over the years and we invite everyone to rally around the campaign and show their local love by helping us make a difference in more lives.”
To help United Way continue supporting these local services, donations are gladly accepted. Call 519-271-7730 or 1-877-818-8867, mail to 32 Erie Street, Stratford, ON N5A 2M4 or visit perthhuron.unitedway.ca