United Way Perth-Huron is excited by the return of campaign co-chairs, Martin and Kathryn Ritsma, for 2020/21.
UWPH Executive Director, Ryan Erb, says the return of the Ritsmas is great news.
“We’re thrilled that Martin and Kathryn are coming back,” says Ryan Erb. “They played a huge part in the success of the past two campaigns and we look forward to having their energy and enthusiasm as we work across Perth and Huron to navigate this challenging time.”
With COVID-19 making things more challenging than ever, UWPH says in a release it's more critical than ever for people to donate to their fundraising campaigns to help communities.
“UWPH has achieved so much over the past few months within Perth-Huron,” says Martin and Kathryn in a joint statement. “Whether it’s helping fund organizations to meet changing needs during the pandemic or partnering with the federal government to support vulnerable seniors, UWPH has worked tirelessly to support our communities. But we can’t be complacent. More work needs to be done locally to navigate the challenging road ahead.”
The Urgent Needs Fund (UNF) is something that UWPH is trying to build on in these challenging times. In a release on September 4th, UWPH says "the UNF is designed to support local residents in a time of crisis by helping with essentials like rent, groceries and medication; keeping those in need from slipping deeper into poverty, shame and despair. In the time since the fund originally launched earlier this year, over 500 people from across Perth and Huron have received assistance."
Community committees of UWPH, which includes St. Marys, Goderich, Exeter and North Perth, are working on solving #UNIGNORABLE issues, such as chronic homelessness and food security. Committee chairs include Rob and Lesley Edney in St. Marys, Jerry McDonnell in Goderich, Dave Reid and Heather MacKechnie in Exeter and Shelley Blackmore in North Perth.
Erb adds “UWPH is committed to helping rebuild our communities in the wake of COVID-19 and supporting the vulnerable and newly vulnerable through existing programs funded by the annual campaign as well as the Urgent Needs Fund. We’re looking forward to working again with Martin and Kathryn to build on what we’ve already achieved and help ensure a brighter future for everyone in our communities.”
