United Way Kingston, Frontenac, Lennox & Addington announced Friday it is launching a community response fund to support the elderly and other vulnerable residents in our region in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The fund is also being assisted by the Anna and Edward C. Churchill Foundation which is offering up to $50,000 by matching donations from community members.
“During this critical period it is important to help those in our community who are vulnerable,” said Tom Wightman, chair of the Anna & Edward C Churchill Foundation. “The foundation looks forward to working with the United Way and helping the agencies and programs in KFL&A as our community responds to COVID-19.”
United Way has targeting a number of key needs in the community for this fund:
- Help for seniors – support and ensure vulnerable people are not isolated
- Basic needs – access to food and supplies to continue helping the most vulnerable stay healthy
- Capacity for community services – community partners can continue to do their vital local work
- Mental health support – system navigation services and counselling
- Support for volunteers – support the amazing people who support others
“We know that in our region many people could not, and cannot, afford to adequately prepare for how COVID-19 is affecting their family. Those who already face barriers—things like food insecurity, poverty, homelessness and social isolation—need even more help during this time,” said Bhavana Varma, President and CEO of United Way KFL&A. “Community members are looking for ways to help and that is where this fund comes in. Our community is strongest when we work together and support each other and that is what we strive to do each day, especially in times of crisis.”
Visit unitedwaykfla.ca/covid-19 for more information
About the Anna and Edward C. Churchill Foundation
The Churchill Foundation primarily supports charitable organizations based in Kingston, Ontario involved with youth, education and health care. Above all else, the Foundation considers organizations that are in need of assistance or provide assistance to individuals and whether the grant will have an impact on the organization or the individuals who are provided such services.
About United Way of KFL&A
United Way works with individuals, organizations and key partners in KFL&A to build and strengthen the community, bringing people and resources together to facilitate change. Our vision is a future where people are self-sufficient in a community, where individuals live with hope, dignity and a sense of belonging. Visit unitedwaykfla.ca for more information.
