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Every penny counts in United Way campaign |
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 Evelyn Nobbs, left, accepted a cheque for $6,000 yesterday raised from staff and students at Holy Trinity Catholic High School. Nikki, centre, is president of student council. Teacher Ella Torto heads up the staff campaign for the United Way. (ASHLEY HOUSE Simcoe Reformer)
Friday, October 23, 2009
In these times of economic stress, the United Way of Haldimand Norfolk has not set a financial goal for its annual campaign.
"Times are tough for everyone," said Evelyn Nobbs, executive director of the local United Way. "We're trying to support agencies the best we can. If those who have the ability to give a little bit do give a little bit, it will make a difference."
But in reality, the organization needs to raise as much money as it did two years ago in order to meet the demand.
Last year the community raised $375,000. The year before it raised $445,000.
"We need to get back to that, at a minimum," Nobbs said.
Yesterday, Holy Trinity Catholic High School helped the campaign move forward with a donation of $6,000, up from last year's donation of $5,000. The year before staff and students raised $3,000.
"I'm looking forward to seeing what we raise next year," said Nikki Persall, president of the student council at Holy Trinity.
Dress down days and buy outs to get out of class to watch the football games were well participated in order to reach that goal. Staff also participated through payroll deductions and dress down days.
"We have to wear uniforms and here is the one chance to wear our own clothes," Persall said. "And chipping in two dollars for the cause is easy."
Imperial Oil has also been a major donor to the campaign, giving $56,000 as a corporate gift and employees matching it.
"The more employees raise, the bigger the corporate gift is the next year," Nobbs said.
But the campaign suffered a huge loss this year as U.S. Steel employees are locked out or laid off. Last year, the company donated $140,000.
"That has a huge impact in a time when demand for our agencies' services has increased nearly two-fold," Nobbs said.
To date, the campaign has raised $136,000. There are still a number of pledges to come through and be counted before the campaign ends at the end of the year.
"We do talk a lot about company and corporate donations but individual pledges are needed too," Nobbs said.
The annual Loonie and Toonie Auction is being held at the Simcoe Recreation Centre on Nov.1. Baskets of goodies and special packages, like two tickets to see the Buffalo Sabres or boxes of chocolates, could be available for a toonie -- but expect to pay more for the hockey tickets. Viewing begins at 12 p.m.
Call the United Way office at 519-426-5660 or 1-866-792-7394 to get tickets to the auction, make a pledge or for more information. |
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Last Updated ( Tuesday, 27 October 2009 )
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