By Sheldon Spackman

Help If You Can

United Way Central Alberta encouraging residents to still give if they can

Apr 3, 2020 | 2:03 PM

If you have the ability to give, the need right now in communities all across central Alberta is immense.

That according to Brett Speight, CEO for United Way Central Alberta who says in times of crisis like the current COVID-19 pandemic, it’s still amazing to see however, the generosity of central Albertans who want to help in any way they can.

“I am hearing about the impact on organizations financially due to cancellation of fundraising events, increased demand for services and programs as more people are impacted by the crisis,” says Speight. “I am also seeing the innovation and determination of these agencies to serve their clients in these challenging times. They are adjusting their programs as best they can and working tirelessly for the vulnerable members of our community.”

Last month, United Way Central Alberta and Red Deer and District Community Foundation each put up $50,000 to jump start a Community Response Fund in light of the pandemic.

Related: United Way Central Alberta, Community Foundation set up COVID-19 response funds

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Officials noted the hope was to enable the local social services sector to continue the critically important work needed to help keep people safe during the crisis.

Speight says central Albertans can donate to either of the two separate funds.

“We are working jointly with a single application for agencies and making our funding decisions together so that we can have maximum impact,” explains Speight. “We have had applications open for a week and have over 13 completed applications and over 10 in progress.”

One of several supports announced by the federal government over the past few weeks to help address the impacts of COVID-19, is $9 million being contributed through United Way Canada for local organizations to support practical services to Canadian seniors.

These services could include the delivery of groceries, medications, or other needed items or personal outreach to assess individuals’ needs and connect them to community supports.

In addition, the Alberta Government is providing $30 million to municipalities, charitable and non-profit organizations to provide help to individuals, seniors, families and other vulnerable Albertans who are isolated or impacted by measures to contain COVID-19.

“At this time I do not have any details on when those funds will come to us locally,” admits Speight. “But they are coming, and we will be working with those agencies as we learn more.”