Local Mayor leads community appeal for urgent support

SUBMITTED

Leeds & Grenville, ON – United Way Leeds & Grenville, alongside Mayor Matt Wren, are calling on the community to come together in response to the devastating fire that has displaced and impacted local families.

To meet this urgent need, United Way Leeds & Grenville is taking immediate action through two vital programs:

1. Urgent Needs Fund – Immediate Relief for Families
Through the Urgent Needs Fund, United Way provides direct financial assistance to fire victims. These funds are used quickly and flexibly for essentials such as emergency housing, food, and clothing—helping families stabilize and begin rebuilding their lives right away.

2. Emergency Response Grant – Strengthening Community Recovery
United Way is also launching a new Emergency Response Grant, designed to help local nonprofits deliver critical relief and recovery services. These grants will be fast-tracked to ensure organizations on the frontlines have the resources they need to respond effectively. While inspired by this fire, the grant will remain in place as a standing resource for future emergencies, ensuring our region is prepared to respond quickly when disaster strikes.

How the Process Works

Step 1: Community Appeal for Donations – United Way will serve as the trusted hub for emergency donations, ensuring contributions are coordinated and managed transparently.

Step 2: Opening Agency Applications – Once funds are secured, eligible local agencies engaged in disaster response will be invited to apply for support.

Step 3: Accountability and Recovery – Agencies receiving funds will report back on how dollars were used and the impact achieved, ensuring both transparency and measurable community outcomes.

“Families need help today, but our community also needs the tools to recover tomorrow,” said Mayor Matt Wren. “These two programs work hand in hand to ensure no one is left behind in this crisis.”

United Way is urging residents, businesses, and community leaders to contribute. Every donation will go directly toward relief and recovery, ensuring both immediate support for families and long-term community strength.

Donations can be made online at www.uwlg.org or by calling 613-342-8889.

“United Way has always been here for our community’s most vulnerable,” said Hailie Jack, Executive Director of United Way Leeds & Grenville. “We’re proud to step in during emergencies to provide immediate aid, while our annual campaign continues to strengthen long-term support and essential services across Leeds & Grenville.”