During this time of a global pandemic, we know that many may not be able to afford to adequately prepare for how COVID-19 will affect their family. Many do not have a support system around them if they need to self-isolate, if they become ill, or if they can no longer work.

Food donations are declining, there are fewer volunteers to support food assistance programs, and with increasing need on the horizon our food bank system is on the verge of a very real crisis. People who live in poverty, seniors and many others are at-risk. Mental health challenges are affecting us all.

HELP US TAKE ACTION

With the support of community partners, United Way/Centraide Windsor-Essex County is asking the community to help support the most vulnerable as we continue to coordinate an emergency action food response to the novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) across our region.

Matching donations were generously provided by Gore Mutual Foundation and ended on May 23, 2020.

When you give, you will help provide:

• Basic needs – ensure people have access to life’s essentials, such as food or a grocery gift card
• Grocery gift card - donate $100 and buy a family of four a $100 grocery gift card
• Capacity for community services – ensure that community partners can continue to do their vital local work
• Mental health support – enable crisis lines and system navigation services
• Support for volunteers – there are amazing people rallying to support others – they need our help too

As the situation changes, United Way will work with our community partners to adapt to emerging community needs.

The Windsor-Essex COVID Care Coalition includes:

Amherstburg Community Services, Alzheimer Society Windsor-Essex, Canadian Mental Health Association Windsor Essex County, City of Windsor, Community Support Centre of Essex County, Family Services Windsor Essex, Green Shield Canada, Life After Fifty, New Canadians’ Centre of Excellence, South Essex Community Council, Unemployed Help Centre, United Way/Centraide Windsor-Essex County, The Victorian Order of Nurses for Canada, Ontario Branch – Windsor-Essex Site, Windsor Essex Children’s Aid Society, Windsor-Essex Community Foundation, Windsor Essex Community Health Centre, Windsor Essex Community Housing Corporation, Windsor Essex Compassion Care Community, Windsor-Essex County Health Unit, Windsor Family Homes & Community Partnerships, Windsor-Essex Food Bank Association Members, Workforce WindsorEssex.