NEWS RELEASE
For immediate release
United Way KFL&A Announces Ambitious Campaign Goal
$2.9 million goal encourages community to continue to show their local love
KINGSTON, ON (September 11, 2020) – The United Way KFL&A has announced a goal of $2,900,000 for the 2020 campaign. The announcement was made this morning virtually through Facebook and the United Way KFL&A website by 2020 Campaign Chair and Kingston Chief of Police, Antje McNeely.
Last year, more than 59,000 people were helped locally in the KFL&A region and the needs are even greater this year. During the first four months of the COVID-19 pandemic, 42,000 individuals received support through 87 programs.
The 2020 goal announced today reflects this growing need. It is also ambitious, as United Way is unable to raise funds through community events this year. Workplace campaigns, where the bulk of our target is raised, may also be limited. Many businesses and workplaces have been affected by the ongoing pandemic and will modify their campaigns.
The annual region-wide goal is typically announced in front of more than 500 United Way supporters and volunteers over breakfast at the Ambassador Hotel and Conference Centre. This year’s announcement reflects how the annual fundraising campaign will be different in many ways.
“So far, 2020 has been unprecedented, with added challenges brought on by the pandemic. This has altered the landscape as to how we can support our community,” says Campaign Chair McNeely. “However, new opportunities arise from crisis; this year’s campaign will find new ways to connect with our community, with virtual platforms widely practised. By utilizing video, teleconferencing, and other workplace platforms, speakers will continue to share their stories on how United Way funding has impacted their lives.”
“The needs are great as our agencies work hard to meet the complex issues faced by their clients,” McNeely added. “In times of crisis, we need to come together and work to make sure immediate needs are met and the most vulnerable members of our community are taken care of. We are asking people to continue to show their local love, continue investing in their community if they can and, if possible, to consider increasing their gift.”
The 12-week campaign wraps up on November 26, 2020. For more information and updates visit www.unitedewaykfla.ca
About United Way KFLA
United Way works with individuals, organizations and key partners to build and strengthen our community bringing people and resources together to facilitate change. Our vision is a future where people are self-sufficient in a community, where individuals live with hope, dignity and a sense of belonging. United Way funds programs that meet immediate needs and addresses the root causes of local issues. Stay up to date by following our social media channels – Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn
For information call 613-542-2674, email uway@unitedwaykfla.ca
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Media Contact:
Mandy Pasch, Manager, Marketing and Communications
United Way KFL&A
613-876-3088, marketing@unitedwaykfla.ca
Bhavana Varma, President and CEO
United Way KFL&A
613-929-4828, bvarma@unitedwaykfla.ca
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