An Open Letter to the Residents of Kawartha Lakes
An Open Letter to the Residents of Kawartha Lakes
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.
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
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 – a member Food Bank of the Kawartha Food Source
