The Sarnia-Lambton United Way says no cuts were made to local program funding.
The 2024 fundraising campaign raised 100.2 per cent of its $1.487 million target.
The volunteer Board of Directors recently approved the 2025-2026 Community Investments to 28 local programs.
The funding portfolio maintains 27 existing funded programs, and an increase of $4,800 to the BGC (Boys & Girls Club) Summer Day Camp to help with the growing number of kids needing care.
United Way is also currently funding a Critical Services Grant for Family Support Services through Children’s Aid Society that will end on March 31, 2025.
In a news release, Volunteer Community Investment Committee Chair Gerry Whitecombe said last year United Way funding supported programs that directly impacted 23,000 people, or about 17 per cent of the Lambton County population.
“In addition, 77,000 volunteer hours were directly contributed to these programs over the past year, that is equivalent to over five years of full time work," said Whitcombe. "Our community is very generous in many ways. We are so grateful to all donors, supporters and volunteers who ensure that these programs are there for those most in need in Sarnia - Lambton."
The current portfolio of United Way funding is as follows;
Poverty to Possibility – 47 per cent of available funding
Healthy People, Strong Communities – 23 per cent of available funding
All That Kids Can Be – 30 per cent of available funding