Tuesday, December 15, 2015
United Way Perth-Huron
Major Gift To United Way Perth-Huron Will Benefit The Children Of Huron County
United Way Perth-Huron is proud to announce the generous gift of $55,000 over three years from Ron D. Cameron to ensure the Huron Recreation, Arts and Sports Program continues. In Huron County, an estimated 2,000 children live in poverty, and the majority of these families are single parent.
Recent studies by many social service and physical education professionals indicate that children from lower income families are less likely to participate in structured and unstructured activities and sports. This polarization of participation along income levels is a concern, especially in light of the recent research that indicates that children who participate in these activities tend to perform better scholastically and socially and grow into well-adjusted adults and Community members.
Administered by YMCA's of Southwestern Ontario, Goderich branch, the aim of the Huron Recreation, Arts and Sports Program is to maximize the number of children who participate in sport, recreation, leisure and arts activities, ultimately reaching to ensure every child in Huron County has access to participation.
Ron has been a long-term supporter of United Way, and served as President of the UWPH Board for several years. He commented, "Investing in youth is vital to the future. It's so important that they have access to programs and services that will allow them to meet their potential, meet their life goals' and thus become valuable community members".
Cameron went on to share his passion for the work that United Way Perth-Huron does: "the organization is a key leader in meeting our Community's needs, facilitating progress and addressing Community social issues. We are committed to making measurable changes, investing in innovation, investigating new approaches and alliances to not only address social issues; but, to actually move yard sticks".
This program was originally initiated to provide financial assistance for children and youth from families whom are recipients of Social Assistance, in order to participate in recreation, arts and sports programs. Each child/youth may receive up to $500 annually, which can be put towards reducing barriers that result from registration costs, obtaining equipment and program supplies, as well as transportation barriers associated with the desired activity. This program is being transitioned from being only offered to families referred through County Social Services to an open self-referral process, making it accessible to Community families living with a total household income of less than $45,000. Once a family applies, the coordinator of the program works with the family to identify child interests and matches them to an appropriate program. Over time as they strengthen the relationships with service providers it is expected that discounted registration fees in efforts to maximize funding and create multiple opportunities for participants throughout the year will be negotiated.
To date, over 40 Huron and Perth agencies and youth programs are participating in this "one door" initiative.
Ryan Erb, Executive Director shared "This incredible gift allows community leaders to take the Huron Recreation, Arts and Sports Program to the next level - building stability, expanding partnerships and opportunities for children - ultimately ensuring more kids have access going forward".
United Way of Perth-Huron is committed to Helping Kids Be All They Can Be and improving lives and builds strong local communities by bringing change where it is needed most. We support in need through nearly 50 supported partners.
All are welcome go Give, Volunteer or Act through the United Way Perth-Huron. For information, visit www.perthhuron.unitedway.ca or call 519-271-7730 or 1-877-818-8867.
Media Contact:
Ryan Erb
Executive Director
1-877-818-8867 or 519-271-7730
info@perthhuron.unitedway.ca
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