Nominations Open For United Way Peterborough & District 2024 Scholfield Award of Community Distinction
/The United Way Peterborough & District invites nominations for the 2024 Scholfield Award of Community Distinction.
Photo courtesy of United Way.
Peterborough Blogs
United Way Peterborough & District's 2023 Community Campaign Hits $1.4 Million
/United Way Peterborough & District honoured donors, volunteers and workplaces for their dedication to the 2023 Community Campaign that raised $1.4 million at The Venue in Peterborough.
UNITED WAY ANNOUNCED IT’S 2023 CAMPAIGN IN DECEMBER OF A GOAL OF $1.45 MILLION. IT FUNDS 20 PARTNER AGENCIES SERVING ABOUT 46,000 RESIDENTS IN 2022. PHOTO BY DAVID TUAN BUI.
Over 100 community leaders gathered at the event to mark the occasion. United Way presented Spirit Awards to 23 workplaces and individuals who exemplified an extraordinary commitment to supporting their community through the United Way Campaign last year
“Our success isn't just measured in dollars, but in the lives touched and futures transformed,” said Jim Russell, United Way CEO. “With $1.4 million raised, surpassing last year by eight per cent, we prove that when a community unites, the impact knows no bounds. Here's to reaching greater heights together.”
“Gratitude fuels our journey towards a brighter future. It has been a privilege to act as United Way Peterborough & District’s 2023 Campaign Chair and I extend heartfelt thanks to our community for their unwavering support,” said Jim Hendry, United Way campaign cabinet chair. “Together, we are creating a foundation of hope, compassion, and empowerment."
“We invest in community and in people. With our donors’ support, we invest money into the community in a few different ways,” said Betsy Farrar, United Way manager of community impact. “In addition to providing funding to 20 partner agencies, advocacy is a critical aspect of our work. Ultimately, our grand vision for Peterborough is that we get to a place where the United Way exists solely as a community builder as the crises we currently face have been resolved.”
“In our community, every contribution to the United Way campaign, whether it's a donation or volunteer effort, is invaluable for funding essential social programs and initiatives,” Anne Ondercin, United Way director of philanthropy. “The Spirit Awards celebrate those who went above and beyond in 2023, highlighting their dedication and inspiring us all with their commitment to making a difference.”
The following are the United Way’s 2023 Community Campaign Spirit Award winners:
SPIRIT OF THE COMMUNITY
Cogeco
IG Wealth Management
Royal Bank of Canada
Dr. Stephan Ragaz
OUTSTANDING WORKPLACE CAMPAIGN AWARD (LARGE)
GM Financial
Peterborough, Victoria, Northumberland and Clarington Catholic School Board
Trent University
OUTSTANDING WORKPLACE CAMPAIGN AWARD (SMALL)
Irwin, Sargent & Lowes
Lucky Strike Bait Works
Enterprise Holdings
CHAMPIONS OF CHANGE AWARD
GM Financial - Tim Parmiter and Kirsten Valencia
Trent University - MK Millard and Alison Sholl
Peterborough Performs - Paul Rellinger
INSPIRING LOCAL LOVE AWARD
Andritz Hydro
Ontario Public Service
Costco Peterborough
LABOUR COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP AWARD
Peterborough & District Labour Council
OUTSTANDING PARTNER AGENCY
Community Living Trent Highlands
Elizabeth Fry Society
Peterborough Child and Family Centres
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United Way Peterborough Unveil Findings On Living Wage History, Release Report of 34-Year History of Income Inadequacy
/The United Way Peterborough & District has released a report that focuses on a 34-year history of income inadequacy and its impact on public health, released on Tuesday.
Jim Russell, United Way CEO (left); Elisha Rubacha, United Way’s community impact officer (middle) and Betsy Farrar, United Way manager of community impact (right) The report was released around World Health Day which is on Sunday, Photo by dAVID tUAN bUI.
The report, called ‘The Gap: Income (In)Adequacy Report 2024,’ uses the 2023 living wage rate for comparison. The Gap shows how Ontario’s minimum wage rate and social safety net have changed.
“There is an unspoken covenant between various levels of government and their citizens and that is to serve people, to preserve communities and to ensure opportunity for all to experience the fullness of life and their potential,” said Jim Russell, United Way CEO. “Built into this notion is the belief that there should be a minimum standard of living for all people. When the cost of living outpaces income available through a minimum wage or social assistance programs, this minimum standard is not upheld as people are not able to afford basic necessities. Through this report, we are calling on readers to reflect, refresh, rethink, and renew how we understand adequate income as not something that is earned, but something that everyone in our community deserves access to.”
“United Way Peterborough & District has previously reported on our local region’s Living Wage rate, as we believe in the value that adequate income brings to our entire community,” said Betsy Farrar, United Way manager of community impact. “This year’s report uses a living wage as a measure of cost of living to highlight the shortfalls of other income types against the cost of living. Our research is highlighting how income rates such as minimum wage and social assistance are increasingly insufficient as the gap between these amounts and the cost of living widens year over year.”
Elisha Rubacha, United Way’s community impact officer, noted that The Gap frequently discusses food insecurity because it’s such a sensitive measure of poverty, resulting in many preventable illnesses that could be avoided if incomes were higher.
“Maintaining poverty is expensive,” she said. “For instance, adults in severely food insecure households in Ontario will generate healthcare costs that are 121 per cent higher than those in food secure households. Within the 34-year period examined in the report, Ontario’s minimum wage was frozen half of the time.”
In Canada, over 60 per cent of food insecure households rely on wages, salaries or self-employment as their primary source of income, indicating that too many of today’s jobs offer insufficient wages according to the report.
“When even working people can no longer afford to eat properly, that illustrates a serious problem,” said Rubacha. “Our social safety net similarly offers little protection from food insecurity, and in fact, has never been fully adequate to meet basic needs.”
The report illustrates the positive impact of existing tax benefits (the Canada Child Benefit and the Guaranteed Income Supplement) that function as basic income guarantees. It presents some results from past Canadian basic income projects (Mincome and the Ontario Basic Income Pilot).
“United Way Peterborough & District believes in moving people from Poverty to Possibility. Improving incomes is necessary, whether that’s through a basic income guarantee, a higher minimum wage, more certified living wage employers, or all of the above. The suffering that results from poverty is preventable. We can choose to prevent it,” according to a United Way press release.
The United Way plans to release this report to all local dignitaries and politicians to address the issue.
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United Way Pushing For $80,000 to Reach $1.45 Million Fundraising Goal; Results to Be Announced at Campaign Celebration On April 11
/United Way Peterborough and District is making its final push of $80,000 in their 2023 fundraiser to meet its $1.45 million goal by its Campaign Celebration scheduled for April 11 at The Venue, announced on Friday.
United Way announced it’s 2023 campaign in December of a goal of $1.45 million. It funds 20 partner agencies serving about 46,000 residents in 2022. pHOTO BY dAVID tUAN bUI.
They have reached 94 per cent of their goal, currently at $1.37 million, surpassing last year’s campaign's success.
“It’s a privilege to see the focus and hard work of volunteers, workplaces, donors joining in driving to a final goal,” said Jim Russell, United Way CEO. “Milestones are important but only serve as signposts for a destination. Often it is the last dollars that are hardest to get and in these final weeks we sense that community momentum in reaching the final destination of 1.45 million.”
“I am continuously inspired by the generosity demonstrated by individuals, families, organizations, and businesses in our community. It's through their collective efforts that together we can create a stronger, more resilient community.” said Jim Hendry, United Way campaign cabinet chair. “We’re in the final push to raise the last $80,000 and make a positive impact on countless local lives.”
Everyone is invited to the celebration with tickets for $25. They can be purchased online.
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20 Nominations Open For United Way's Inaugural 'Women of Impact' Awards
/United Way Peterborough & District has opened nominations for their inaugural ‘Women United’ awards to recognize 20 ladies who have gone above and beyond to make our community a better place.
File Photo.
The women nominated are those who create an impact in Peterborough City and County in politics, the arts and sciences, and several other fields.
“By sharing their stories, we can cement their place in history and inspire others to follow in their footsteps. Together we are the impact and we shape the tapestry of and heart of Peterborough City and County,” according to a United Way Statement.
Nominees can be living or deceased. They can be inspired by neighbours, caregivers or volunteers who have:
dedicated time towards a particular social cause or causes
demonstrated impact in their profession, organization, or community
advocated for the representation and empowerment of underrepresented groups
distinguished themselves on the local/national/international stage
Nominations are open until April 14.
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United Way to Increase Menstrual Product Accessibility With 'Tampon Tuesday' Throughout March
/As an essential call out to improve accessibility for menstrual products United Way District & Peterborough and partners are holding the eight-annual Tampon Tuesday during March.
Photo courtesy of United Way.
“With the cost of living on the rise the priority of food, housing or bills overtakes that of menstrual products,” as stated in a United Way press release” In fact, menstrual hygiene products are one of the most requested, yet least donated items at food banks. Understandably, low-income individuals find it difficult to budget for this monthly expense. Many simply cannot afford them.”
Tampon Tuesday collects menstrual hygiene products. Everything collected will be distributed to local food banks in Peterborough County by Kawartha Food Share.
“Holding a collection at your business, social club or even among your groups of friends or neighbours is a fun and rewarding way to help those in need,” said Anne Ondercin, United Way director of philanthropy. “We are also excepting monetary donations to purchase additional menstrual products which will also be distributed through Kawartha Food Share to individuals who need them most.”
Last year, United Way’s Tampon Tuesday drive collected 20,030 pads, tampons, liners, cups and personal care items in just three hours, a more than 100 per cent increase from the previous year. The goal is to surpass that intake.
Several community drop-off locations will be accepting menstrual product donations in Peterborough during March including:
United Way Peterborough & District - 277 Stewart St.
Bell Media Office - 59 George St.
Alternatives Community Program Services - 270 Braidwood Ave.
Sullivan’s IDA - 71 Hunter St.
Westmount Pharmacy - 1293 Clonsilla Ave.
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Trent University Crushes Fundraising Goal Raising Over $117,000 For United Way
/Trent University's faculty, staff and retirees smashed their fundraising goal of $100,000, raising $117,847 for the United Way supporting those in need in Peterborough and Durham at a cheque presentation held at Bata Library on Thursday morning.
Trent's support and annual campaigns for the United Way date back to 1965 and have raised more than $2.7 million for the organization. Photo by David Tuan Bui.
“The enthusiasm and generosity displayed by Team Trent have set a standard for what can be accomplished when we come together with a shared purpose,” said Marcus Harvey, United Way board chair and Trent University Faculty Association executive director. “Trent's annual campaign will make a tangible, positive impact on the United Way and the agencies and individuals they serve.”
The campaign launched in October with fundraising events such as the annual kick-off BBQ, a chili cook-off and white elephant tables.
“I want to extend heartfelt gratitude to Trent University for their unwavering dedication and generosit,” said Jim Russell, United Way CEO. “Their remarkable efforts in raising funds epitomize the essence of community support, ensuring that the most vulnerable among us receive vital assistance. Thank you to the donors and campaign ambassadors at Trent University for your outstanding commitment to building a strong community. Together we can uplift lives and forge brighter futures.”
The funds will aid United Way in redistributing it to its community partners including its ‘Reaching Home: Canada's Homelessness Strategy.’
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"People Are Just Getting Poorer" Peterborough's Housing Crisis Worse Than a Year Ago Says United Way
/The United Way Peterborough & District’s 18th Edition of Housing is Fundamental report says that the city’s housing crisis has become worse than a year ago according to author Paul Armstrong.
Paul Armstrong authored the Housing is Fundamental report annually. The report was relased publicly a day after World Homelessness Day, held on Oct. 10. Photo by David Tuan Bui.
The announcement was made at United Way Peterborough & District as part of their annual report written by Armstrong that started 18 years ago.
It provides an overview of Peterborough's local rental market while also highlighting the impacts of the commodification of housing and income inequality.
“People are just getting poorer. That's all there is to it,” said Armstrong. “When your rent keeps going up and up and up, you're not in a position of having the same disposable income and without that disposable income, you're going to have to back away from something else in the marketplace. “
Armstrong’s key findings include:
Peterborough's vacancy rate is the lowest in Ontario for the second year in a row at 1.1 per cent
Newly vacant apartment rents were 19 per cent higher than the rent of occupied units
Recovery in employment and renewed student inflows supported rental demand
70 units were added to the market, which is the largest increase in the last 15 years
Armstrong’s localized statistical figures based on data from Statistics Canada and the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CHC).
“Never has housing commanded so much attention,” said Armstrong. “Almost daily, reports highlight shortages of purpose-built rental units and widespread affordability challenges. The current dilemma, while newsworthy, isn't new. Its roots can be traced to federal government decisions made in the 1990s. Three decades later social or rent-geared-to-income housing has never been so needed. And 'affordable' housing, which is 10 per cent - 20 per cent below market rents is all but unattainable.”
His report also found that rental demand kept pace with supply growth last year and two-bedroom rentals are 23 per cent higher upon turnover to new tenants.
“Both homelessness and severe housing burden now exist in dangerous proportions. Governments hopefully have learned that reliance on the private market to meet all housing needs is imaginary and unfounded. They (governments) must get back into the game with appropriate policy and adequate funding.”
Armstrong continues to mention that this year's perspective is critical as there is a growing cost of living, particularly in housing and food costs.
Jim Russell, United Way CEO described rising housing costs' impacts on our community members.
“Housing is Fundamental to well-being,” he said. “As we strive to build a better community together, a basic starting point is safe, affordable housing for all.”
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United Way Announces 2023 Community Campaign Cabinet
/United Way Peterborough & District has introduced their Community Campaign Cabinet members for their upcoming 2023 campaign, announced on Monday morning.
The cabinet members during a break from a meeting to walk through thier 2023 campaign plans. Photo by David Tuan bui.
This year’s cabinet includes 25 members for the 2023 campaign including six new additions.
The following are the cabinet members:
Jim Hendry, Campaign Cabinet Chair
Dr. Marcus Harvey, Past Cabinet Chair
Maryam Monsef, Women United Chair
Darcy Bonner, Community Ambassador
Brian Desbiens, Community Ambassador
Galen Eagle, PVNCCDSB
Coby Fewings, Scotiabank
Dr. Bruce Gibson, Community Ambassador
Marg Glenn, Community Ambassador
Tracy Keough, RBC
Greg Kidd, KPRDSB*
Lawrence Lam, Trent University*
Richard Lambert, BMO
Scott Mancini, Ashburnham Realty,
Jen McFarlane, City of Peterborough*
Amanda, Pinder, RBC
Dr. Stephan Ragaz, Community Ambassador*
Paul Rellinger, PTBO Performs Event
Heather, GM Financial
Sebastien Tinor-Roy, TD Bank
John Townsend, Peterborough Police Service*
Shirley Turner, Community Ambassador*
Jim Russell, UWP, CEO
Anne Ondercin, UWP
Sara Mountenay, UWP
*denotes new member
The Cabinet is a hands-on team that makes decisions around campaign strategies, communications with donors, making workplace visits and even organization according to a press release.
“We fund 20 different community agencies. Some of them are small and can't afford to do fundraising on their own,” said Hendry. “Some of them big but we give them a fair bit of money. The organizations we fund affect everyone in the community in some way, homelessness, food insecurity and literacy.”
The 2023 campaign kicks off at the Healthy Planet Arena on Sept. 6.
United Way Highlights Annual Accomplishments By Releasing 2022-2023 Community Impact Report
/The United Way Peterborough & District announced its Community Impact Report entitled “UNITED. Together We Can…” which highlights their accomplishments, the funded agencies and community partners throughout the 2022-2023 season.
Jim Russell, United Way CEO during the presentation of the organization’s Community Impact Report. Photo by David Tuan Bui.
“Our work as a community relies on personal connection, which was undeniably impacted by the social distancing throughout the pandemic. Agencies pivoted and adapted to continue to support our community despite the added pressures resulting from the pandemic, said Jim Russell, United Way CEO. This past year marked the beginning of coming together again, and we are so proud of how our donors, agencies, volunteers and community have embraced the opportunity to come back stronger than before.”
The report showcased the outcomes that are made possible through United Way’s investment in 275 different programs and initiatives during the presentation.
“The Community Impact Report is a celebration of the achievements of our funded agencies as well as our United Way initiatives,” said Betsy Farrar, United Way manager of community impact. “The statistics captured in this report demonstrate the power of strategically investing in work to collectively have the strongest outcomes possible. Beyond each of the statistics listed in this report are meaningful, deep, life-changing impacts experienced by the 46,263 people that are helped through the work of United Way and its funded agencies.”
United Way investments were reported to support agencies to provide a range of different services, including:
164,936 nutritious meals, snacks, and food boxes
7,142 nights of safe shelter
35,148 mental health and social wellness activities and check-ins
27,113 in-home supports and care visits for isolated individuals
