The United Way of Sarnia-Lambton has given $5,000 each to Lambton Elderly Outreach and St. Clair Child and Youth.
The organization's board of directors has now approved a total of $45,000 in pandemic funding to nine local agencies.
The grants were made possible thanks in part to Libro Credit Union's donation of $320,000 to eight United Way’s in southwestern Ontario.
That included $35,000 to the local United Way's Compassion Fund.
Volunteer President John Killingsworth said they're beyond grateful to Libro for their donation that will have an impact on the lives of everyone in Lambton County.
"It is essential that we keep the community updated on the organizations that are receiving assistance through the Compassion Fund. Our donors trust that we are taking swift action to help those who need it most, and they should feel proud that their donations are having an immediate impact in Lambton County," he said.
Lambton Elderly Outreach will use the money to address the increased need for services like Meals on Wheels, crisis intervention, and personal support.
St. Clair Child and Youth will direct the funds to its crisis program for youth who have been referred by Bluewater Health for priority treatment.
The grant will allow them to move to a virtual program during the COVID-19 pandemic, and to upgrade computer security. They say this will allow for a greater opportunity for a clinical connection and client engagement.
The Compassion Fund is comprised of community donations from those who want to help Sarnia-Lambton's most vulnerable people in the wake of COVID-19.
Donations can be made online at www.theunitedway.on.ca or by calling 519-336-5452.