United Way teaming up with community partners to fight hunger

As the current climate in Chatham-Kent is shifting daily, United Way of Chatham-Kent is working rapidly with front-line agencies, the municipality and community partners to uncover the greatest needs in this community.

With the closure of our local schools, United Way officials say they know that school aged children in Chatham-Kent are already experiencing food shortages.

United Way, the Ontario Student Nutrition Program and the local CK Student Nutrition Program are working together to ensure that families who rely on the program get additional financial support so they have adequate food at home during this time.

To be qualified to receive support, families must have a school-aged child attending school in Chatham-Kent and register on Gigit Marketplace.

The support will be in the means of gift cards valued at $20 for up to two children, and $10 per additional child, United Way officials say.

Families needing additional pantry supports are being asked to contact their nearest food bank, dialing 211, or visiting www.ontario211.ca.

“With limited resources, United Way is continuously watching our levels of government so we can align our work where there may be gaps,” stated Steve Pratt, Chief Executive Officer, United Way of Chatham-Kent, in a media release.

“Our capacity to support in this time of need will depend on the generosity of our donors and partners; and the ability of the community to be generous during this difficult time. Behind the scenes, we are working to unite with the community to help finance food relief for the at-risk and organizing human resources so they are at the ready.”

It is estimated that $100,000 will be required to address the food security needs of Chatham-Kent’s families, food banks and frontline-agencies, Un9ted Way officials stated.

Given the risk of spreading illness, many organizations are not currently accepting gifts of donated items.

Those wishing to support front line agencies are being asked to donate money or gift cards to purchase food and supplies as this will provide the greatest impact, United Way officials added.

Visit ckgives.ca or call the United Way office at 519-354-0430 to make your contribution.

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