Another fundraiser to help address addictions and homelessness in Chatham-Kent has launched.
The Because We Care CK initiative kicked off on Friday and hopes to surpass last year's total of $150,000. For the third year in a row, local businesses will be deeply involved in the campaign to support the United Way.
More than 65 local businesses and individuals participated in the fundraiser last year and the opening of the James St. Drop-In in Wallaceburg was one successful outcome. They also helped the United Way with their donation to the residential Withdrawal Management services at Chatham-Kent Health Alliance. Additional funding from last year’s initiative also helped support community outreach programs and local food banks, where usage has increased 30 per cent since 2020, according to the United Way.
The agency also said housing security will become uncertain for many more again this winter because the cost of utilities and food are predicted to rise again and the Because We Care CK initiative supports the development and continuation of crucial programs.
Barb Palace, CEO of United Way of Chatham-Kent, is proud of the work done to help those challenged by the causes of homelessness this past year, but stressed that the issue is a complicated one.
“There are many reasons that someone might be unhoused or facing housing insecurity in Chatham-Kent so we have to address those needs in a variety of ways,” said Palace.
Because We Care CK runs until February 28, 2023.
For more information or to donate click here.
