United Way Perth-Huron’s annual fundraising campaign is returning to support those in need.
The campaign kickoff will see multiple events taking place across Perth and Huron counties, including Stratford, St. Marys, North Perth, North and South Huron, and Goderich.
In an interview with MyStratfordNow, United Way Executive Director Ryan Erb said there’s an increase in challenges related to income, housing, mental health, intimate partner violence, food security, access to services, and discrimination.
“We have increases in wait times for mental health resources in our community, and not nearly enough of us can afford to pay for the housing that is safe and suitable for our needs.”
Erb said wages aren’t going up as fast as costs, and more people are experiencing food insecurity as a result because they can’t afford to buy safe and healthy foods.
With issues getting bigger, he said United Way needs to raise more money to address them.
Last year’s campaign raised more than $2.5 million, with United Way aiming to exceed that goal this year to support more organizations across the region.
All proceeds from opening events will go directly to the campaign, supporting 25 organizations and 40 programs in Huron and Perth.
Stratford’s kickoff event includes lunch at Market Square on Sept. 19. It runs from noon to 1:30 p.m.
