United Way Guelph Wellington Dufferin (UWGWD) issued an urgent call for community donations to close a critical funding gap that threatens more than 50 local social service programs, according to local media coverage of the organization’s Dec. 9 press release.
Executive Director Glenna Banda says a combination of higher living costs and a decline in traditional donation methods — including workplace campaigns and mail-in gifts — has left the annual campaign, which in recent years has typically raised between about $2.5 million and $3 million, falling short of this year’s needs. In 2024, the campaign raised $2,530,147 to support 51 programs across Guelph, Wellington and Dufferin.
Compass Community Services, a key United Way-funded agency that operates mental-health counselling and telephone support lines, is among the local programs that could see reduced services if the shortfall is not addressed. “It means a food bank open one less day per week, or a client unable to receive life-saving counselling during a mental health crisis,” Banda said in the United Way press release.
Community members can donate online, by phone at 519-821-0571, or by initiating peer-to-peer fundraisers; more details are available on United Way Guelph Wellington Dufferin’s official website.
The campaign continues through December, and UWGWD is urging residents and local businesses to step up now to help prevent service reductions in the coming year.
