UNITED WAY HPE CELEBRATES A RECORD-BREAKING CAMPAIGN

United Way Hastings & Prince Edward is proud to announce that the 2025/26 fundraising campaign has officially closed at $2,256,387, marking a record-breaking year for the organization.

This year’s success reflects the incredible generosity of workplaces, individual donors, volunteers, sponsors, and community partners who continue to step up at a time when local need is higher than ever. Workplace campaigns remain the foundation of United Way’s impact, with employees across the region choosing to give through payroll deduction — small amounts from each pay that add up to life-changing support for local programs.

That steady, dependable generosity is what makes records possible.

For the past several years, United Way Hastings & Prince Edward has been oversubscribed in funding applications, highlighting the growing demand for critical programs and services across the region. Every dollar raised stays local, supporting 40 agencies and 45 programs and reaching 1 in 3 people in our community.
Signature initiatives such as Cars for Community, the Ultimate Burger Battle, and Day of Impact delivered record results once again — bringing energy and momentum to the campaign and reminding us that giving back can be powerful, purposeful, and even a little fun.

“I am incredibly proud of this community,” said Brandi Hodge, Executive Director of United Way Hastings & Prince Edward. “A record is a record,” she added with a smile, “and this one belongs to every workplace donor, volunteer, supporter, and sponsor who chose to give again this year. It speaks to the compassion, commitment, and generosity of the people and workplaces across Hastings & Prince Edward. At a time when needs continue to grow and we are seeing more funding requests than ever before, this support makes a tangible difference in the lives of our neighbours.”

The campaign was strengthened by the leadership and dedication of the volunteer Campaign Cabinet and Co-Chairs, who championed the work of United Way throughout the year.

“Our volunteer cabinet showed up in wonderful ways — opening doors, sparking conversations, and inspiring others to get involved,” said United Way HPE Campaign Co-Chairs Jodi and Victor Cooper. “This achievement belongs to the entire community. We are so grateful to everyone who gave, advocated, and believed in what we can accomplish together.”

While this year’s total sets a new benchmark, United Way Hastings & Prince Edward is already looking ahead. The organization has set an ambitious goal of reaching $3 million annually by 2028, driven by the increasing and urgent needs facing individuals and families across the region.

“We’ll celebrate this record,” said Hodge, “and then we’ll get back to work.”