The United Way of Bruce Grey is making an urgent appeal for support in the last weeks of 2023.
Executive Director Francesca Dobbyn says, the backpack program saw a shortfall of almost $40,000 this year.
“While we’ve had wonderful support throughout the year from our donors, the average online donation has dropped from $126 to $106,” says Dobbyn.
Last year, there was a $20,000 shortfall for the program. The United Way says in 2022 they absorbed a small deficit for the year without impacting its 2023 programming.
They say in a release, “The 2023 gap is significantly larger, and cuts to 2024 programming and support are possible if the deficit is not addressed with 2023 fundraised dollars.”
Dobbyn says, “Since 2018 when we had a jump in the number of requests for backpacks, the fundraised dollars have not kept up to that need.”
Demand for backpacks was up over 400 from 2022 and 500 from 2021. The program donates backpacks and school supplies to students in the area who need them.
According to the United Way, requests for most utility supports are up and there’s a greater need for food supports.
Dobbyn says, “While the community has been incredibly supportive this year, costs have climbed significantly
along with significant need and demand for services. We took the unpleasant laying off an administrative staff in the early fall, to try and find savings without affecting front-line programs.”
She notes the challenges facing the United Way are not unique and other local charities are seeing the same challenges.
“It’s rare a day goes by that a community partner doesn’t call looking for help from the United Way to meet the needs in their community,” says Dobbyn.
You can donate online at DonateToday.ca or send an e-transfer to: manager@unitedwaybg.com (Include your first and last name and your mailing address in the notes section of your transfer).
You can donate in person at at 380 9th Street East Owen Sound during regular business hours. Monday to Friday 8:30 to 4:30. The office is closed December 23rd – 26th .
Credit Card donations can be called in at 519 376 1560 or toll-free at 1-800-794-1728
Or you can donate by mail: United Way of Bruce Grey, 380 9th Street East, Owen Sound ON, N4K 1P1