United Way Perth-Huron is launching a capital campaign to raise funds for the Northern Huron Connection Centre and celebrating the generosity of Co-operators’ Brett W. Lammie & Associates Inc. in supporting United way’s efforts on behalf of vulnerable people in northern Huron.
“We’re grateful to the Co-operators,” said United Way Executive Director Ryan Erb. “This $10,000 donation is an important step toward raising renovation funds needed before the program can open. We’ve seen the positive impact connection centres have on vulnerable people’s lives through existing programs in Stratford, Exeter and Listowel.”
“As a co-operative, we believe in putting the needs of our clients and communities first to help overcome the challenges of today and build a better future for Canadians,” said Brett Lammie. “We are very excited to make this donation and look forward to seeing it put towards such a meaningful cause in our community.”
“On behalf of the Northern Huron Community Committee I would also like to thank Brett for the support,” added Lisa Harper, United Way Manager Community Development, Northern Huron. “Our goal for this capital campaign is $130,000. We hope the generosity shown by Brett W. Lammie & Associates Inc. inspires other companies and individuals to join us in helping create brighter futures for local people in need.”
The northern Huron community has already demonstrated a strong commitment to the connection centre. Last February’s Coldest Night of the Year walk in Wingham raised over $40,000 for centre operations. The capital campaign aims to build on that support through addressing specific needs including refurbished washrooms, newly created office space and installation of laundry and shower facilities.
Serving Howick, Morris-Turnberry and North Huron, the Northern Huron Connection Centre is intended as a welcoming, safe space for the community’s most vulnerable citizens to rest, access basic needs, healthcare services, identification assistance and more. Partnerships with agencies — including Choices for Change, the organization chosen by United Way to operate the centre — mean those using the connection centre can access important services and supports under one roof. United Way is hoping to open the centre in mid-November or early December.