United Way Perth-Huron officially kicks off 2025-2026 fundraising campaign

The United Way Perth-Huron unveiled a 2025-2026 campaign goal of $2,529,770 at the St. Marys Farmers’ Market on Saturday. Pictured from left are campaign co-chair Kristin Sainsbury, co-chair John Wolfe, Pam Zabel, Gwen Bradley, deputy mayor Brogan Alyward, Paul Williams and Al Slater.

By Wendy Lamond

On Saturday, Sept. 20, volunteers with the United Way Perth-Huron were at the St. Marys Farmers’ Market at Milt Dunnell Field to kick off their annual fundraising campaign and unveil a 2025-2026 campaign goal of just over $2.5 million.

Campaign co-chairs Kristin Sainsbury and John Wolfe and United Way volunteers were onsite giving away cookies and sharing information before the big reveal. This chapter of the United Way has been helping people in our area since it was established in 1959 and, for years, has lived by its mission statement to improve lives and build community by engaging individuals and mobilizing collective action.

“The United Way assists over 40 organizations in Huron and Perth counties,” Wolfe said. “While our goal is ambitious, it is one that helps us fulfil the mandate to help those who need a hand up. We thank all those that have supported and continue to support. Every dollar helps.”

Some of the issues the United Way aims to address with the funds it raises each year are discrimination, intimate partner violence, access to service, low income, lack of housing and social isolation.

The stats in our area are nothing short of astounding. Last year alone, 190 families and individuals in St. Marys and the surrounding area received counselling, and one in three Ontario children lived in a household that struggled to put food on the table. Rising prices and tariffs have put an increased need and stress on the community and support is needed now more than ever.

There is currently an online 50/50 fundraiser with tickets available until Oct. 31. Tickets can be purchased at https://perthhuron.unitedway.ca/50-50-draw/.

The funds raised through the annual campaign stay local and help reduce poverty, help with housing solutions and support mental health through over 30 programs and services.

For more information on the United Way Perth-Huron, the research it conducts, volunteer opportunities and upcoming fundraising events, visit perthhuron.unitedway.ca.