United Way Deserves Your Support

What we desire for ourselves we wish for all
- J. S. Woodsworth

- Darlene Dziewit, MFL President

In these tough economic times, the words of J. S. Woodsworth have greater meaning than perhaps ever before. The 2009 United Way campaign, led by Campaign Chair Jeff Zabudsky, is targeting to raise even more than the $17.8 million raised last year, under the committed leadership of 2008 Chair, Bob Silver. There is no doubt that every cent of the money raised this year will be needed to help to alleviate poverty within our communities.

Once again this year, like last year, working people will be asked to step up and contribute all they can to the United Way - and as always, I know they will come through.

Of all of the groups in Canadian society, working people have the biggest hearts. They are the ones who give money to the United Way in increasing amounts every year and in greater proportion of their income than any other group. They do not do so for recognition, but because they understand that it is very easy to fall upon hard times, and even easier to fall between the cracks in our recently somewhat leaky social safety net.

Working folk do not simply believe in 'charity', which, for some, means the handing 'down' of goods in exchange for recognition or gratitude. Rather, workers prefer to think of the help they give to others in difficulty as a hand up.

Working people believe, deep down, that no one wants to have to receive help. They know that this is not a desired state. But sometimes, circumstances require help, if not for the person her or himself, but for those who rely on them, such as their children. And above all else, working people believe in the dignity and value of every citizen.

Now, more than ever, we need your help. If you have donated to the United Way before, please do so again, and please consider increasing your donation. If you have not donated before, now is the time to begin.