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United Way Campaign approaching midway point

October 23, 2009

As United Way’s Campaign heads into its third month, the people of London and Middlesex are showing their generosity but it is clear the current economy means more will need to be done in order to reach the $7.4 million goal. Currently the Campaign is tracking at 27 per cent.

Individuals, companies, volunteers and organizations have been incredibly generous thus far, and there has been great commitment to the Campaign.  However, given the job losses in the community, United Way is depending on those who are able to give a little extra, or those who have never made a donation to consider making a donation this year.

“Compared to last year we are seeing some increased donations from many individuals, but understandably there are many people who have not been able to participate this year,” says Chirag Shah, United Way’s 2009 Campaign Chair and Partner at PricewaterhouseCoopers. “We know how generous the London and Middlesex community is, and knowing that economic conditions have affected how much some people can give, we are hopeful that those who can give will be able to donate more.”

The importance of giving to this year’s United Way Campaign is heightened as the demand for social services and the unemployment rate in London and Middlesex both continue to increase. London and area has the second highest unemployment rate in the country.   

“As predicted the economic climate has had an effect, but it only means that we are going to have to work harder,” says Andrew Lockie, CEO of United Way of London & Middlesex. “More than ever the need in our community is great, and we see it in the increased demand for the social services. We need the people of London and Middlesex to help us with their

United Way donations in order to continue to support these agencies at this critical time.”

Many services are seeing a spike in demand. Requests for counselling services are increasing. Family Service Thames Valley reported a double digit increase for credit counselling alone. More women - in some cases twice as many as the year before - are seeking help from organizations such as the London Abused Women's Centre and Women's Rural Resource Centre of Strathroy & Area.

To give to the United Way Campaign
Online: www.uwlondon.on.ca
By phone: 519-438-1721
In person or mail: United Way of London & Middlesex,409 King Street, London, N6B 1S5


About United Way
The largest non-government funder of social services in London and MiddlesexCounty, United Way creates real, lasting change to improve the quality of life of all people in our communities. United Way identifies and understands the root causes of social issues; brings together research, experts and resources; initiates and invests in the most needed and proven programs; and develops leaders and skills to strengthen the charitable sector.

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For more information, please contact:
Johanna Mesjarik, Communications Coordinator
519-438-1723 ext. 346