United Way HPE Funding Requests Reach Record Levels, Reflecting Unprecedented Community Need

United Way Hastings & Prince Edward is pleased, but cautious with the progress made to date in its annual campaign efforts with almost 63% of the goal achieved to date; there are just over 7 weeks to go. However, the organization is also confronted with an unprecedented surge in funding requests, reflecting the immense need within our community.

The demand for assistance has reached an all-time high, underscoring the urgent need for additional resources as the not-for-profit sector strives to address critical social issues. “The deadline for organizations to apply for funding from United Way HPE was Friday, and the need demonstrated in those applications is simply unprecedented.  If we were to meet all of the requests and continue to support the important programs and services we do, we’d need to raise $3.2M” says Brandi Hodge, Executive Director, United Way HPE. “We anticipated increases in requests, but even we were a little shocked by both the number of organizations applying and the financial need that was demonstrated.”

United Way HPE’s mandate has always been to mobilize resources and collaborate with partners to create lasting change. In response to the escalating need, the organization is committed to working tirelessly to raise the necessary funds to support these vital programs and services.

“As is typical for our community, the support offered to date has been inspiring. Between events, new partnerships, and gifts from community members, local foundations and businesses, we are tracking well in our annual campaign” says Brandi Hodge, United Way HPE Executive Director. “The coming weeks will tell the tale.  We know that disposable income is less this year, and it’s harder for families to give, so we are anticipating a struggle to reach the goal of $2.2M by January 31.”

“While we are encouraged by the progress we have made in the campaign to date, we cannot ignore the fact that the need for funding has never been greater,” says Dan McCullough, United Way HPE Volunteer Campaign Chair. “We are determined to rise to this challenge and raise as much as possible to ensure that our community receives the support it desperately requires.”

United Way HPE encourages individuals, businesses, and organizations to join forces in addressing these pressing needs. By coming together and uniting, we can make a significant impact on the lives of those most affected by these challenging times.

This fundraising campaign will continue until January 31, 2024. Community members wishing to donate can do so by contacting the United Way HPE office at 613.962.9531 or www.unitedwayhpe.ca/donate