United Way of Sarnia-Lambton has passed the $1-million mark in its annual fundraising campaign, but the organization says it is still facing a significant shortfall as the final weeks approach.
The campaign received a major boost this week after results from the NOVA workplace effort were finalized. Employee donations, retiree contributions and special-event proceeds were all matched by the company, resulting in a $307,557 contribution and pushing the campaign slightly above $1.2 million.
Despite the momentum, United Way says the campaign remains behind pace. “We are still tracking behind last year’s pace by about $80,000,” said executive director Pamela Bodkin.
Bodkin said the community has shown strong generosity so far. “We are incredibly grateful to everyone who has contributed so far, we have had some very successful employee campaigns at workplaces and some very generous individual gifts. This shows just how much our community cares,” she said. “But we’re not there yet and the final stretch is always the toughest. While most workplace campaigns have wrapped up and early donors have stepped up, the need for support still remains urgent. The truth is that without reaching our goal, critical programs that thousands of people rely on could face reductions.”
The annual campaign supports programs involving food security, mental-health services, housing stability, youth programming and supports for seniors. Demand for these services continues to grow, increasing the pressure on United Way to close the fundraising gap before the campaign ends.
“Surpassing $1 million is a meaningful accomplishment, but it is not enough to keep pace with the growing needs in our community,” Bodkin said. “We are urging individuals, and workplaces, to consider giving—or giving a little more—so that no one gets left behind. All money raised here stays here to help those in need in our community.”
With three weeks remaining, the organization is asking residents to help ensure the programs it funds can continue at current levels. Donations can be made online at the United Way website, in person at 1362 Lambton Mall Road or by calling 519-336-5452.
