The COVID-19 pandemic has affected vulnerable individuals and families across Perth and Huron Counties. A stark reminder of how profound the effects are is reflected in the initial response to United Way Perth-Huron (UWPH) opening its COVID-19 Urgent Needs Fund directly to individuals through a partnership with Social Services in Perth and Huron. In the first four days of applications beginning May 4, the fund received so many requests UWPH is now looking to raise more money to meet demand.
“Whether it’s people looking for help paying for groceries, diapers or medication the early response has been substantial,” said UWPH Executive Director Ryan Erb. “We’re glad people know about the program and are reaching out for support, but it also points to the seriousness of the situation many find themselves in. We’re asking those who can to please give or give again to the COVID-19 Urgent Needs Fund.”
Beyond individual needs, UWPH has been working with existing partners and other non-profits in the community to shepherd organizations and the people they serve through current health crisis. The strong relationships UWPH built within the local non-profit community allowed the organization to respond quickly to community needs.
In the past six weeks alone UWPH provided over $90,000 for initiatives from 13 local organizations including; the Community Table in Exeter, the Gateway Centre of Excellence in Rural Health, the Huron County Food Bank Distribution Centre, Family Services Perth-Huron, Huron Perth Public Health, Huron & Area Search and Rescue, the John Howard Society, OneCare, the Ontario Student Nutrition Program, Huron Safe Homes for Youth, the Town of St. Marys, the Emily Murphy Centre and Ritz Lutheran Villa. More announcements are coming soon. For funded program details, go HERE.
Programs and services are just part of UWPH’s efforts to help local communities get through the current crisis. Volunteers have also been working to update information of almost 900 records for the 211 database ensuring people have access to the latest information about help in their community. UWPH also teamed with local municipalities on a web portal called helpdolocalgood.ca; a one-stop reference for people looking for information and ways to help and launched the Huron-Perth COVID-19 Resource Group on Facebook. Moderated by Perth and Huron Librarians and other dedicated volunteers, the group serves as a gathering place for people to find help, read information on COVID-19 from credible sources like Huron-Perth Public Health, share inspiring stories and stay connected with other local people during isolation. In the true spirit of community, UWPH also hosts a weekly virtual meeting for local non-profits leaders to connect, problem solve and share information.
“UWPH has always worked hard to address the most pressing issues affecting our region,” added Erb. “The COVID-19 pandemic has changed a lot in our communities. What hasn’t changed is the abundance of good people and organizations working to help the most vulnerable. UWPH is proud to be part of this effort and we’ll continue working to offer compassion, caring and resources where they’re needed most.”
The COVID-19 Urgent Needs Fund assists organizations helping individuals and families in need. Organizations apply to UWPH and a volunteer committee reviews each application quickly so funds are distributed as soon as possible. Applications are available HERE. To donate to UWPH’s COVID-19 Urgent Needs Fund, click the “Donate to the COVID-19 fund” button on this page or call the United Way offices at (519) 271-7730 between the hours of 8:30 am and noon and 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm.