On Saturday, the United Way Halton and Hamilton (UWHH) announced its 2023–2024 fundraising goal of $12.5 million, which it will use to continue its support of local organizations and programs, and kicked off this year’s campaign with their Plane Pull event. The goal for the Plane Pull was to raise $100,000 — participants dug deep in their fundraising and plane-pulling efforts and raised over $171,000, flying well past the target.
At Hamilton International Airport yesterday, each 15-person Plane Pull team worked together to drag the 200,000-lb UPS plane across 50 feet of tarmac as quickly as possible. From RBC Waterdown’s superheroes to Acclaim Health’s busy bees, all of the more than 50 participating teams drew strength from the community spirit shown by supporters in attendance. Families cheered on the teams, petted St. John Ambulance’s beautiful therapy dogs, jumped on the bouncy castles, and examined the airport emergency vehicle and planes out on the tarmac.
As President and CEO of UWHH Brad Park says, “We’re coming out of the gate strong this year, and having witnessed the remarkable influence of a community united in supporting its most vulnerable, we’re deeply inspired. This ignites our commitment to enhancing program capacity, ensuring every individual in need can access essential resources without delay. We have encountered an array of challenges over the past few years, which have reshaped our lives in unexpected ways. Yet, amidst these trials, we’ve seen the incredible resilience that our community has when we stand shoulder-to-shoulder. As we approach the threshold of a pivotal year for Burlington, we’re committed to leading the way for positive change and resources to build a better future.”
With the first $171,000 to put toward that final destination of $12.5 million, UWHH is off to a great beginning for their campaign. The funds allow UWHH to support 106 community programs, 46 of which are in Burlington — those 46 programs serve over 17,340 people, and the aim is to impact even more people this year.
A new offering this year to help UWHH expand their impact is the Local Love Community Match program. For every $4 donation, $1 will be added. The additional dollar for every $4 will come from a group of community leaders and local corporations, some of whom approached UWHH with the idea of building this community match program earlier this year.
“Our community has rallied in remarkable ways during the past few years and we will continue driving that momentum forward,” says campaign chair Matt Wickham. “Our collective work, in ensuring people have access to the help they deserve, is critical to building a thriving community. This year’s Local Love Community Match provides an incredible way to amplify the impact of your contribution to United Way Halton & Hamilton. Whether you’ve been a long-time supporter or are considering your first gift, now is the time to help create lasting change.”
If you’d like to donate to United Way Halton and Hamilton to help get to that $12.5 million goal, there are a number of ways to give detailed on their website.
