An open letter to the residents of Kawartha Lakes

By Lindsay Advocate

The Ontario government has announced it will be sending a cheque for $200 to eligible adults, and children under 18.  This initiative comes at a time when many families are struggling and in need of support.

Some people have approached us, acknowledging that they are fortunate enough not to need the help themselves.  They would like to donate their $200 cheque to create a meaningful impact in the lives of others.

As a collection of local social service organizations, we share a clear and urgent message: the demand for assistance has reached an unprecedented level.  Many families in our communities grappling with hunger, cold, homelessness, isolation, safety, mental or physical health issues and other critical challenges.  Many charities work tirelessly to create lasting change through initiatives in Indigenous education, environmental conservation, youth mentorship, community care, and more. The organizations dedicated to these causes can continue to make meaningful impacts with the help of those who are able to contribute.

If you are in a position to do so, please donate your $200 rebate to a charity of YOUR choice.  You can find many charities on Canada Helps or donate directly on your charity’s website.

We understand that addressing immediate needs may feel like treating symptoms rather than solving the root causes of systemic issues. However, as we work together as a community to find long-term solutions, we must also ensure that no one is left behind in the present.

Together we can collectively strengthen our community. Your kindness and generosity can bring hope to those who need it most.

Thank you for considering this call to action.

Sincerely,

Laurie Dillon-Schalk, Executive Director, Community Foundation of Kawartha Lakes

Jim Armstrong, Chair, Kawartha Works Community Co-op

Janice Balfour, Executive Director, Big Brothers, Big Sisters

Brenda Roxburgh, Executive Director, VCCS Employment Services

Lori Watson, Executive Director, Womens Resources

Amy Terrill, Executive Director, BGC Kawarthas

Richard & Sandi Gauder, Urban Tree and Biodiversity Planters, Plant Kawartha

Mark Majchrowski, CAO, Kawartha Conservation

Rodney Smith-Merkley, President of The Mishkodeh Centre for Indigenous Knowledge

Angela Ricciuti, Executive Director, A Place Called Home

Ryan Alexander, Chief Executive Officer, Community Care City of Kawartha Lakes

Dana Hetherton, Chief Executive Officer, John Howard Society Kawartha Lakes & Haliburton

Fay Carslake, Chair, Dunsford Food Bank

Kelland Sewell, Board Chair, Kawartha Lakes Food Source

Emily Beall and Shantal Ingram, Executive Directors, United Way City of Kawartha Lakes

Erin Coons, CFRE, Chief Executive Officer, Ross Memorial Hospital Foundation

2 Comments

  1. Joan Abernethy says:

    The other thing we can do is if we know a neighbour that is struggling, anonymously donate it directly to them.

  2. Connie says:

    Excellent idea….thank you

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.

*