In an effort to meet the local community’s emerging needs, United Way Guelph Wellington Dufferin is investing in 86 social service programs at 53 community agencies during 2014-15.
“In total, United Way is investing an additional $130,000 in community programs over and above the millions committed in previous years,” said Ken Dardano, executive director of United Way Guelph Wellington Dufferin.
“Thanks to the tremendous support from donors, we have been able to increase our investment in the community 45 per cent over the past five years.”
United Way invests funds in community programs based on identified community needs. Local volunteers manage the distribution of funds, thoroughly researching and meeting with agencies applying to United Way to learn first-hand how their programs address local issues.
Several charities will see an increase in their United Way funding, including Give Yourself Credit, with an increase of $19,620 to help fill the gap made by a large cut in government funding last year and Women In Crisis, which will receive a $15,000 increase in funding for their Sexual Assault Centre and Rural Women’s Support Program.
The Guelph Neighbourhood Support Coalition will also receive a one-year $50,000 grant to help with capacity building and program development.
In addition to these increases, several new agencies and programs will receive funding, including Onward Willow Better Beginnings Better Futures ($47,500) and East Wellington Community Services’ Community Outreach Program ($35,000).
“United Way has committed $2.55 million in funding this year,” added Dardano.
“It is thanks to the ongoing support of donors that we can invest in vital social programs. Their support allows United Way to provide the consistent funding that local charities need to develop long-term programming that makes lasting change.”
A full list of United Way funded agencies is available at www.unitedwayguelph.com.
