United Way Perth-Huron’s COVID-19 Urgent Needs Fund has raised over $17,000 so far to address the needs of residents and organizations in a time of crisis.
The goal is to get organizations the funding they need quickly to make needed changes to continue to serve the people who need help.
On top of individual donations, the united way has invested $20,000. Libro Credit Union contributed $60,000 to Perth-Huron of its $320,000 total commitment to United Ways across Ontario. Another $10,000 came from the Stratford-Perth Community Foundation (SPCF).
Organizations receiving assistance include Huron and Area Search and Rescue who have jumped in to help Huron-Perth ‘Meals on Wheels’ program to deliver prepackaged meals to those with disabilities, seniors and other vulnerable individuals. and the One Care grocery delivery program to increase free delivery to 500 clients twice a month.
Town of St. Marys is receiving support for its resident’s wellbeing, access to food and nutrition, and essential medication and to work with the communities’ social connectivity. The John Howard Society needs funds to improve technology to deliver service remotely. Huron Safe Homes for Youth is working to improve technology to deliver service remotely and to obtain personal protective equipment for in necessary in-person service. And Exeter Pentecostal Church community table is providing food hampers to anyone in need in South Huron and emergency funding to help individuals who have suffered income loss.
“The response from the community has been tremendous,” said UWPH Executive Director Ryan Erb. “The generosity of neighbours helping neighbours through donating whatever they can is wonderful. We are so thankful to SPCF and Libro for their generous contributions”.
UWPH has accelerated its ability to receive applications and to get the funds out, with turnaround being approximately one week.
“I want to give huge accolades to our staff and volunteers, who have made this possible and to the organizations to date that have mobilized to serve their community,” said Erb
Applications by organizations for up to $5,000 will continue to be accepted and will continue to be funded as donations grow. The application form can be found at the bottom of the urgent need page at http://perthhuron.unitedway.ca/community-resources/urgent-needs-fund/
To donate to UWPH’s COVID-19 Urgent Needs Fund, visit give.unitedway.ca/donate/WSTRAT-UWPH
