Local residents were extra generous over the holiday season, helping the United Way of Sarnia-Lambton exceed its fundraising goal.
In the final days of the 2024 campaign a number of donations were collected and, in the end, they surpassed the $1,487,000 target by $3,000.
Late in the initiative, there were fears the United Way's campaign would come up short.
Director of Development and Communications Ryan Doyle said they were $77,000 away from reaching the target, as of December 23, 2024.
"We did some calculations in early December and we started reaching out to our media people to say we weren't going to make it, and we needed another push," said Doyle. "It's tough because so many people did such great work doing fundraising way before that. We put out the public appeal and we got this huge influx of support which really pushed us over the edge. We have a surplus, which is really super exciting."
Doyle said United Way funds a total of 17 local agencies that provide 29 programs and services to the community.
"We're still reviewing the applications, so the numbers might switch up a little bit depending on which programs the agencies are applying for," he said. "We're happy that there will be no reductions in funding for 2025. I can't tell you how profoundly happy that makes us."
Doyle said there are so many businesses and people that deserve shoutouts.
"NOVA Chemicals, Pembina, Enbridge, Imperial have all been amazing partners," said Doyle. "The list is huge, all of these companies get together and help us with amazing fundraising. We have a great seniors' campaign with our mailouts and so many people just come to the office and make donations. There are so many people to thank."
Doyle said they've already started preparing for the 2025 campaign, noting the popular Novemburger fundraiser will be returning.
In a news release, Executive Director Pamela Bodkin expressed her gratitude.
"We are so lucky to have such a caring community, United Way supporters make a profound difference in the lives of so many people in Sarnia-Lambton year-after-year," said Bodkin. "Whether it’s a senior giving back to the community they call home, or a workplace donor making sure Sarnia-Lambton stays strong for their children, United Way supporters know it takes all of us!"
Recipients from the 2024 campaign include the Canadian Red Cross Society, Big Brothers Big Sisters Sarnia-Lambton, the Inn of the Good Shepherd, and Habitat for Humanity.
A full list can be found on the United Way's website.