Powell River and District United Way has stated that challenges of 2020 have not spared local charities.
In a media release, the local charity stated it is facing a decline in corporate, individual and workplace donations this year, while also seeing an increased demand for its services.
In Powell River, the United Way runs the ORCA Bus mobile preschool program, Danielle’s Helping Hand Fund for low-income families and multiple hygiene cupboard locations for people in need.
United Way also funds local agencies focused on alleviating poverty, helping children succeed, and building community in Powell River and qathet Regional District.
United Way director of engagement and development Julie Jenkins stated it has been a challenging year for fundraising.
“Our annual events were cancelled, individuals and businesses are less financially able to give, and local workplaces whose employees contribute through payroll have been out of operation,” stated Jenkins.
The organization stated it is thankful for federal funding that is allowing it to support many local agencies serving seniors and vulnerable populations through March 2021.
In partnership with Powell River Community Foundation and First Credit Union, United Way launched the COVID-19 Community Response Fund, which has distributed more than $184,000 to local agencies throughout the region, according to the media release.
United Way president Charlene Reinisch said the federal dollars contributed to the fund by United Way are now depleted, and she’s concerned about ongoing need in the community beyond March.
The most recent Community Response Fund intake had a record number of applications, suggesting growing need for local agencies and vulnerable populations they serve as the pandemic continues, the release stated.
“We have seniors isolated and in need of home-based supports, people struggling with mental health, low-income and single-parent families who have lost jobs and are trying to make ends meet,” stated Reinisch. “Across the board there are basic needs like food, shelter and hygiene.”
Reinisch stated corporate and individual donations needed to operate programs for seniors, children and families are down by 20 per cent compared to 2019. Revenues from payroll deductions at local workplaces have dropped by nearly 50 per cent.
“We’ll do everything we can of course, but the decline in donations does impact our capacity to support the community,” stated Reinisch. “Every dollar raised here goes back into local programs and the more we raise, the more we can do to help.”
Reinisch thanked donors, volunteers and the community for the support and generosity at this time.
Tax-deductible donations can be made at unitedwayofpowellriver.ca, or by cheque mailed to PO Box 370, Powell River BC, V8A 5C2.
