UNITED WAY LEEDS & GRENVILLE LAUNCHES EMERGENCY RESPONSE GRANT TO SUPPORT FIRE VICTIMS

Tanya Noyes • August 27, 2025

 Local Mayor Leads Community Appeal for Urgent Support 

 Leeds & Grenville, ON – United Way Leeds & Grenville, alongside Mayor Matt Wren, is 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 to support our most vulnerable,” said Hailie Jack, Executive Director of United Way Leeds & Grenville. “This initiative brings together both emergency aid and community recovery—because our neighbors need help now, and they will continue to need us in the months ahead.”


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 About United Way Leeds & Grenville

United Way Leeds & Grenville invests in programs and initiatives that address the most pressing needs in our communities. Through collaboration, accountability, and compassion, United Way helps build a strong social safety net that ensures residents have the support they need to thrive.

Media Contact: Hailie Jack, Executive Director | ed@uwlg.org | 613-342-8889 

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United Way Leeds & Grenville Achieves $900,000 Campaign Goal

By Tanya Noyes • February 4, 2026
Leeds & Grenville, ON – February 4, 2026 – United Way Leeds & Grenville (UWLG) has successfully reached its 2025 fundraising goal of $900,000, thanks to the generosity and commitment of donors, volunteers, workplaces, and partners across the region. Inspired by this year’s theme, Hope Starts with You , the community came together to support local programs and services that help people and families when they need it most. “I’m incredibly proud of our staff, Board, Campaign Cabinet, and Champions who worked hard right through the finish line,” said Board Chair Ian McFall. “This milestone wouldn’t be possible without the support of our community.” Campaign Chair Darren Gallacher added, “Reaching $900,000 means real, measurable impact across Leeds & Grenville. This achievement belongs to everyone who gave, volunteered, or supported the campaign.” UWLG’s Community Investment process is now underway, with volunteers reviewing applications to direct funds where they will have the greatest local impact. The organization continues its work year-round through workplace campaigns, events, and volunteer opportunities. To donate, volunteer, or learn more, visit www.uwlg.org or call 613-342-8889. About United Way Leeds & Grenville UWLG is dedicated to improving lives and building a stronger community. We focus on critical issues such as food security, homelessness, housing, mental health, addictions, and supports for children and youth. Through collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to community, we strive to create vibrant, caring communities where everyone can thrive. – 30 – Media Contact: Hailie Jack, Executive Director United Way Leeds & Grenville 613-342-8889 | ed@uwlg.org Photo courtesy of Andrew Kizell, A. Kizell Photography (Real Estate & Drone)  Pictured from L-R (Front): Melissa Hindman (Director, Resource Development, UWLG), Brian Normandin (Financial Controller, Burnbrae Farms), Tanya Noyes (Data & Communications Coordinator, UWLG), Dr. Helen Anne Hudson (Senior Advisory to Corporate Social Responsibility, Burnbrae Farms), Meagan Metcalf (Executive Assistant, 3M Brockville), (L-R (Back): Marieke Van Spriel (Programs & Office Coordinator, UWLG), Melissa Szydlowski (Digital Marketing Specialist, Henderson Printing), Andrew Kizell (A Kizell Photography), Darren Gallacher (Campaign Cabinet Chair, UWLG & Business Loans Officer, Community Futures Grenville), Christopher Dang (Financial Analyst, Burnbrae), Chelsea Anderson (Case Manager, United Counties of Leeds and Grenville).
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