When the May 16th Miracle called on the community to take action and donate a single canned item to help neighbours in need… Chatham-Kent rose to the challenge and said ‘we can do more’.
Not only did the community donate 678,200 lbs. of food with an estimated value of $1,763,320, they also donated financial gifts through ckgives.ca or directly to their nearest emergency food providers within the community.
The value of donated food is based on data collected from December 2017 to January 18 by Food Banks Canada, United Way officials say.
Of the cash donations received, United Way of Chatham-Kent officials have announced $45,855.31 was collected within Chatham’s city limits.
The May 16 Miracle team allocated funds based on the number of people served on a weekly basis to the following 31 front-line organizations to help their emergency food relief programs within Chatham.
– Outreach for Hunger
– Salvation Army Chatham
– Rock Missions
– Women’s Centre
– SCC Student Union
– Freehelp CK
– Street Frendz
– St. Vincent de Paul
– The Wish Centre
– Campbell AME
– Social Services
– Hope Haven
– The Sandwich Guy
– School Within A College (SWAC)
– The Caring Kitchen (St. Ursula Church)
– Praise Fellowship Pantry
– Shepherds Way Inn
– Big Brothers/Big Sisters
– Family Support Network
– Refuge
– Hope Housing
– Rain or Shine
– St. Andrews/Victoria Ave United Churches
– March of Dimes
– Community Living
– St. Agnus
– Blessed Sacrament Church
– Student Nutrition Program
United Way officials say the need for food relief through Chatham-Kent’s food banks and emergency food providers have increased since the COVID-19 pandemic, due to the many who have lost their jobs and income.
Families needing pantry supports are being asked to contact their nearest food bank, dialing 211, or visiting www.211ontario.ca.
Individuals or businesses wishing to continue supporting front-line agencies are being asked to donate money or gift cards.
Visit ckgives.ca or call the United Way office at 519-354-0430 to make a contribution.
Donations raised will be invested back into Chatham-Kent in places where it is needed most to make meaningful change.
