United Way Niagara exceeds fundraising goal but local challenges remain

Niagara, ON, March 28 – In another record year for United Way Niagara, the annual fall campaign, led by Campaign Chair and President of Beatties Business Products, Brad Steeves, raised five million two hundred and eighty-nine thousand dollars, exceeding the five million two hundred-thousand-dollar goal. The achievement was announced at the annual Campaign Celebration Breakfast on March 28.

“As I reflect on my time as Campaign Chair, I am both honoured to have led this remarkable campaign and humbled by the generosity that I have witnessed this year,” said Campaign Chair Brad Steeves. “I extend a heartfelt thank you to the donors and campaign volunteers I have had the pleasure of working with, your generosity and dedication speaks volumes of your commitment to transformative change.”

While the United Way campaign reached its goal, troubling increases in the need for support continues. The demand for food programs, mental health support and addiction supports among others are staggering. Requests for United Way funding from local agencies still strongly outweigh the amount available to grant.

“We’re grateful that year over year our dedicated supporters still answer our call,” said United Way Niagara CEO Frances Hallworth. “Local people all across our region are feeling the strain on their budget with rising prices for utilities, groceries and other essentials. Imagine the pressure those already living at or below the poverty line before are feeling now. United Way will ensure the funds so generously donated will be directed where they’re needed most to respond to the growing need for support throughout Niagara.”

The 2023 Campaign Celebration gathered local donors, supporters, businesses, labour partners and agencies to reflect on the successful year and look towards the future. Together, the community opened doors to opportunity for those who otherwise might have been left behind.

Lifting vulnerable individuals out of poverty and allowing everyone to experience equity will take more than just one person or agency to achieve. Visit the Get Involved page on our website to learn about how you can help United Way Niagara achieve our goals.

2023 Campaign Award Winners:

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