GUELPH – United Way Guelph Wellington Dufferin celebrated generosity and community spirit on Dec. 13, as over 170 members of the community came together to honour the hard work put in by hundreds of volunteers for the organization’s annual fundraising campaign.
“I have been humbled by the kindness and generosity of our community,” said Jeff DeRuyter, 2019 United Way Campaign Chair.
“As the chief of police, I was already aware of many of United Way’s funded programs and services, but seeing the hard work and dedication of the volunteers and community partners to raise the funds has been such a pleasure to be part of.”
Funds that are raised during the annual campaign support a network of more than 50 agencies and 70 local social service programs across Guelph, Wellington County and Dufferin County, helping thousands of people when and where they need it most. All money raised stays in the local community, with funded programs supporting an estimated 90,000 people every year.
“The community has given us millions of reasons to celebrate this year,” said DeRuyter, before announcing that over $3.3 million has been raised to date.
The campaign was launched in September with a goal of $3.4 million.
“There’s still time to make a donation and help United Way continue to make a difference,” said DeRuyter.
In addition to United Way’s regular funding, $160,000 was donated earlier in 2019 to help with initiatives as a result of the Mayor’s Task Force on Homelessness and Community Safety, including the Supported Recovery Room and Welcoming Streets program.
At the event on Dec. 13, Linamar Corporation, the University of Guelph, The Co-operators and the County of Wellington were recognized with awards for campaign of the year.
Linamar was also awarded the Overall Achievement award, raising $750,000 company-wide. Sleeman Breweries, OMAFRA, the Wellington Catholic District School Board and the Guelph Nighthawks were also among those recognized with United Way awards.
