Over $115 thousand is being given to local programs thanks to the United Way of Perth Huron.
The funds are coming from the New Initiative Grants.
Organizations receiving funding include: Family Services Perth-Huron, the Huron County Food Bank Distribution Centre, John Howard Society, Stratford/Perth Shelterlink, Stratford Pride Community Centre, YMCA of Three Rivers and the Community Table in Exeter.
Programs getting funding include:
1. Building Resiliency with Developmental Services Clients — Family Services Perth-Huron. Providing social work supports to those in the developmental sector and their families, caregivers and/or supports in an effort to build stronger communities for these individuals and their families.
2. Hygiene Health 4 Seniors — Huron County Food Bank Distribution Centre. Providing hygeine products for food bank clients in Huron and Perth (including Stratford and St. Marys) as well as the Mobile Food Bank program to meet a basic need providing a dignified lifestyle to elderly clients.
3. Hope Kits — John Howard Society of London and District.
Providing essential support to aid individuals released from Stratford jail to ensure a safe and successful return to the community, who otherwise may face homelessness.
4. Prevention and Early-Intervention Models to Serve Youth — Stratford/Perth Shelterlink. Researching and developing prevention and early-intervention models to serve youth from all populations in a culturally appropriate manner.
5. Stratford Pride Community Centre. Providing a community centre for the local LGBTQ+ community, serving as an information and social hub.
6. The Next Journey — The Community Table Exeter. Addressing the transportation barrier in accessing essential and non-essential services for individuals living within the Huron Park area.
7. Finding Your Way — YMCA of Three Rivers. Providing clients with a level of autonomy to identify their needs, where they can bridge the gap and enable access to Settlement, Employment and Language programs and resources to meet needs and make the newcomer journey easier.