United Way Perth-Huron launched the 2021-22 campaign with a goal of $2,002,061 and a commitment to continue addressing #UNIGNORABLE issues such as poverty, mental health and homelessness in the South Huron and area community.
“We’re happy to get the campaign underway,” said Darren Boyle, United Way Perth-Huron South Huron & Area Community Committee co-chair. “South Huron and area continues to pull together to support United Way and we’re excited to share the organization’s local work.”
As part of kick-off celebrations in Exeter, United Way collaborated with the Experience Exeter BIA to present a community volunteer fair and soup challenge for local restaurants. Organizations participating in the volunteer fair included Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Huron and the Little Shop, Huron Fidget Makers, the Huron County Food Bank Distribution Centre, the Huron County Library — Exeter branch, iVolunteer Perth-Huron, Noah’s Ark and the Community Table and the South Huron Optimist Club. The soup lunch and competition featured delicious soup creations from Crabby Joe’s Tap & Grill, Robinson’s Fresh Café, Malibu Restaurant, the Huron Family Restaurant and the Barn. For the cost of a five-dollar soup ticket, attendees were able to sample soup from participating restaurants with proceeds going to UWPH.
Part of United Way’s work in the South Huron and area community includes a new project called the Exeter Connection Centre, in partnership with Noah’s Ark, located at the Exeter Pentecostal Church. The Exeter Connection Centre will be a welcoming place offering basic needs such as light meals, a shower, washroom and laundry facilities. Partnerships with numerous agencies offering support to local people in need mean those using the centre can access important services and supports under one roof. Over the next three years a community garden, collective kitchen programs and early years programming with be added; breaking down barriers and developing relationships between community members.
“The Exeter Connection Centre is an important project for vulnerable people in South Huron and area and we’re looking forward to working with local supporters and our partners at Noah’s Ark to make this a reality,” added UWPH Executive Director Ryan Erb. “Homelessness is a pressing issue locally and we want to be part of the solution.”