The COVID-19 pandemic has affected already vulnerable individuals and families, but recent numbers from a United Way Canada survey show the emergence of a new group of vulnerable people; those who have never needed assistance but now find themselves struggling due to the impacts of COVID-19.
“The pandemic continues to take a toll on our communities and the people in them,” said United Way Perth-Huron Executive Director Ryan Erb. “It’s difficult for so many, and for those who have never asked for help before, not knowing where to turn adds an extra layer of stress. We want people to know there is a compassionate place to turn without having to rely on high interest lending options that lead to incurring large debts. The Urgent Needs Fund is here to help and we encourage anyone with a need to apply.”
United Way is thankful to continue its partnership with the City of Stratford Social Services Department and the Huron County Social & Property Services Department acting as administrators to get funds into the hands of those in need. In applying for these funds, not only will individuals have the opportunity to access the Urgent Needs Fund, but also the fund administrators are compassionate to each situation and work to connect individuals with other municipal services/supports that could help.
“We’re happy to continue working with United Way to provide a way for residents facing challenges to get the help they need,” said Stratford Mayor Dan Mathieson. “We want to ensure everyone feels supported.”
“The County of Huron is committed to ensuring that help is available to residents in need,” added Huron County Warden Glen McNeil. “United Way’s Urgent Needs Fund is a proven added layer of support for individuals and families.”
Since its creation in May of 2020, the Urgent Needs Fund has provided in excess of $100,000 to over 700 people across Perth-Huron for help with immediate, pressing needs such as paying bills, buying groceries and car repairs. The fund is administered by the City of Stratford Social Services Department on behalf of Perth County and the Huron County Social & Property Services Department on behalf of Huron County. To download an application form, go HERE.
Perth residents can submit applications via email to rbrown@stratford.ca, or drop off or mail to Social Services, 1st floor, 82 Erie Street, Stratford, ON, N5A 2M4. In Huron, submit applications to owteam501@huroncounty.ca, or drop off at or mail to Huron County Social and Property Services, 77722D London Road, RR 5, Clinton, ON, N0M 1L0. If someone is unable to submit their application by email or postal mail, call Social Services directly at 519-271-3773 x 277 in Perth or 519-482-8505 x 4501 in Huron. Mail applications may be slower due to possible mail processing delays. Funding is limited and will be given on a first come, first serve basis provided eligibility criteria is met.