United Way KFL&A COVID-19 Update – June 23, 2020

On behalf of the thousands of people who have benefited locally from your support, thank you! Your contribution has changed lives right here in our community, helping the most vulnerable members live with hope, dignity and a sense of belonging. Your contribution has helped feed the hungry, shelter the homeless and bring comfort to those struggling with abuse, mental health and so many other issues.

2019 Annual Report

Here is a link to our 2019 annual report. This report provides you with an overview of the work this past year and how you have made a difference and impacted the lives of so many. 2019 was a very successful year, thanks to your support. This United Way was again named one of the Top 100 charities in Canada, with a record-breaking campaign and significant strides in addressing the root causes of some of the issues facing local residents.

This collective work has moved the needle, with fewer youth on the street and more in safe spaces as a result of the collective work of youth, agencies, partners coming together to make a difference in the lives of young people who are homeless or at risk. You can read more about this in the 2019 Report on Youth Homelessness.

You can also view the list of agencies and programs supported in 2019

2020 Pandemic

As we reflect on 2019, we know 2020 has been a very different year. We are currently living through the COVID-19 pandemic and this time has been difficult for people in our community, especially those who are most vulnerable. It is wonderful to see the community come together, and to work closely with agencies who immediately stepped up to the challenge, and found innovative ways to continue to support those in need.

For our part, United Way KFL&A immediately focused on response and launched the United Way COVID-19 Response Fund in March. Along with this we received funding through the federal government. These funds were invested in local programs to respond to immediate needs. To date over $700,000 has been distributed over the last three months to agencies in the community. (This is in addition to quarterly funding of over $450,000 this quarter to United Way’s partner agencies for ongoing programming) Please visit our website for more information and a full list of programs and agencies responding and adapting to local needs.

Thank you!

Once again, my heartfelt thanks to you and the thousands who support United Way. You have the power to change lives for the better- thank you for making a difference through the United Way, and for continuing to show your local love.

Take care. Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions.

Thank you.