MEDIA RELEASE
For immediate release
Local charities to receive more than $1 million in funding from the United Way
Jan. 24, 2022
SAINT JOHN, N.B. – More than $1 million will flow to 19 charities in Saint John, Kings and Charlotte counties from the United Way in 2022, the organization announced today.
The $1.08 million in United Way funding will help move individuals and families out of poverty, break the cycle of domestic violence, ensure access to mental health services, and help children and youth reach their full potential.
“We are continually impressed with the work that all of these organizations are doing in our community. They commit themselves each day to creating better opportunities for others and are transforming people’s lives in the process. Even amid the ever-changing regulations and restrictions due to the pandemic, they adapt and continue to be there for the people they serve. We are happy to support their efforts to build better communities,” says Alexya Heelis, Executive Director of United Way Saint John, Kings & Charlotte.
One story of transformation is Miriam Westin, who took part in the Enterprising Women program through the Saint John Community Loan Fund.
“I participated in Enterprising Women in the Fall of 2020. With the help of the business plan I completed in the program, I was accepted to the Self-Employment Benefit program through NB CBDC. I incorporated my business in March of 2021 and since then have been selling boxes of fresh produce and fresh raw juices. I also received a loan that helped to kickstart my business and provided me with some security. I am so grateful for the Saint John Community Loan Fund for both pushing me to move forward with my idea and providing me with the support to take it further.” – Miriam Westin, Owner/Operator of LifeDirt.
United Way Saint John, Kings & Charlotte also welcomes two new organizations this year: Dial A Ride Fundy Regional Transportation, to combat social isolation and reduce transportation barriers to residents of Grand Bay-Westfield to Sussex and everywhere in between; and the Multicultural Association of Sussex to support language training for newcomers.
Chelsie Nightingale, Executive Director of the Multicultural Association of Sussex, is thrilled to be receiving funding to help newcomers overcome barriers to a fulfilling settlement experience. As she explains, “Language is the cornerstone to settlement. It not only helps newcomers to achieve employment, but it is an important component to being an active member of a community, building relationships and achieving overall well-being. United Way funding will fill the gap in accessing language services in Kings County and creating a stronger community for all.”
The two new partners join another 17 United Way-funded partners who will have their funding renewed this year as they continue to demonstrate that their programs are making a measurable difference in the community, through outcomes that are reviewed bi-annually to ensure they are meeting their goals. The full list of 2022 United Way Funded Partners is below.
Successful applicants for United Way funding complete a robust, three-phase application process to ensure that donations entrusted to United Way are invested in organizations that exemplify key United Way funding principals: community knowledge, resilience, measurable difference, flexibility and innovation, and partnering.
United Way Saint John, Kings & Charlotte 2022 funded partners
Media contact:
Alexya Heelis
United Way Saint John, Kings and Charlotte
Alexya@unitedwaysaintjohn.com
(506) 643-1383