Trent University Raises Over $150,000 for United Way

Trent University faculty, staff and retirees have raised a record-breaking $150,936 for the 2020/21 annual United Way campaign for community organizations and services in need announced Thursday.

Photo Courtesy of Trent University.

The campaign launched virtually in October as The United Way committee was thrilled with the result and donations from the fundraiser.

“The pandemic created a crisis for the United Way: community need surged while fundraising activities became enormously more difficult,” says Dr. Marcus Harvey, United Way Peterborough campaign chair. “Trent’s response was crucial to this year’s campaign. For people who rely on the services of United Way Partner Agencies, the generosity of the Trent community can be life-changing.”

Photo Courtesy of Trent University.

Funding will go to various initiatives including 325 counselling sessions; housing supports for 200 people; spaces for 200 women and gender diverse individuals in our community to access social supports to build self esteem, manage stress and navigate healthy relationships; court advocacy and service navigation for 100 women; as well as supporting a Peterborough agency the ability to support nine people with barriers to traditional employment and who have experienced homelessness.

“Each year, Trent faculty and staff come together to support the United Way and our local communities,” says Julie Davis, vice president of External Relations and Development at Trent. “This year was a particularly challenging for many as we navigated the COVID-19 pandemic. It’s been inspiring to see the generosity of our Trent community in support of the United Way, their partner agencies, and the people who rely on these vital supports and services – contributing to the largest gift to the United Way in Trent’s history.”

“Through the generosity of Trent University, the United Way and partner agencies successfully supported over 800 community members this year,” adds Jim Russell, CEO, United Way of Peterborough & District. “With thanks to Trent’s generosity community members struggling with mental health, emotional wellbeing, employment and housing received the support they vitally needed. We are truly grateful to the Trent University community.”

Trent has been supporting the United Way since 1965, raising over $2 million during that span. The campus has been Peterborough’s largest workplace partner in the Peterborough region.

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