With winter’s arrival, a local charity is spearheading a vital campaign to combat food insecurity, a pressing issue that leaves many in the community struggling to access regular, healthy meals.
“Many in our community are going hungry. We’re here to change that narrative,” says Erika Stenson, executive director of the United Way Southern Vancouver Island (UWSVI).
UWSVI’s Food for Thought campaign runs until Dec. 31, with a unique opportunity for donors to double their impact, thanks to a $50,000 matching gift from long-time supporters.
Additionally, donations of $25 or more are automatically entered in a draw for a $250 gift certificate from the Old Farm Market.
“By supporting our campaign, you become a part of the solution, helping to provide immediate relief and long-term sustainable solutions,” Stenson adds.
This campaign is more than just a seasonal endeavour; it’s year-round commitment to three critical areas: supporting seniors, aiding families in need and assisting individuals with mental health and addictions challenges. Local people in all of these areas are affected issues of food insecurity, which has a disproportionate impact on the most vulnerable in the community.
Last year, United Way Southern Vancouver Island supported 77 local social service agencies, touching the lives of 64,000 people.
UWSVI supports local initiatives from agencies like Backpack Buddies Victoria and Esquimalt Neighbourhood House Society, which offer meal bags for food-insecure children and weekly markets providing free produce.
“We’re inspired by the service providers we work with. Our communities are better because of people doing extraordinary work,” shares Stenson, emphasizing the collective effort in moving from poverty to possibility.
The organization’s strategy involves addressing immediate and parallel long-term systemic solutions, yet it faces the same challenges as many in the community, with food and living expenses on the rise.
United Way calls on the community to help those in need. “When a lot of people are hurting, giving what they can makes a significant difference. We are here to help,” Stenson says.
Looking ahead, United Way Southern Vancouver Island plans to grow its sustainability and continue injecting more funds into the community, aiming to find systematic and inclusive solutions to social issues plaguing the region. UWSVI’s The regularly checks-in with the service providers it funds to ensure ongoing support and effectiveness.
Learn more at uwsvi.ca or call 250-380-6708 and donate easily and securely here.