United Way Continues to Support Sarnia-Lambton Organizations with Compassion Fund

The United Way of Sarnia-Lambton COVID-19 emergency Compassion Fund continues to provide help to Lambton County not-for-profit’s in need. The fund was set up to ensure that the agencies have resources so that they can continue to operate at the highest capacity. United Way has received numerous applications and issued eleven grants totaling $54,000 to date. “We would not be able to issue these grants without the support of individuals and businesses in our community”, said volunteer board member and labour representative Michele LaLongeDavey. “The Compassion Fund is unique and selfless, as are the donors. I feel we can never thank our donors enough, every donation, no matter the size is impactful. CNIB is the eleventh recipient to receive a grant from the COVID-19 Compassion Fund. CNIB- $4,000 Many individuals rely on a sighted person for grocery shopping and may face ridicule for needing physical support when challenged with the six-foot physical distancing rule. CNIB has adapted one of its Virtual Vision Mate programs to recruit and engage volunteers so they can connect with program participants. In Sarnia there are 4,000 people living with sight loss. Funds will be used to help bring on and train more volunteers to ensure they have the strategies and resources needed to ensure the health and safety for employees and program participants. The Compassion Fund is comprised of community donations from those who want to help our most vulnerable in the wake of COVID-19. Donations can be made online at www.theunitedway.on.ca or by calling 519-336-5452. For more information, please contact Dave Brown, Executive Director at 519-384-9270. Please note the United Way of Sarnia-Lambton office is closed but all office staff are working remotely and have email, telephone, and voicemail access.