United Way Identifying Needs Of C-K’s Priority Populations
CKXSFM Staff
The United Way of Chatham-Kent continues to work together with front-line workers, community groups and those most impacted through the COVID-19 crisis to identify the needs of local priority populations.
An average of 50 front-line workers, community groups, and those most impacted are collaborating to address the needs of seven of those most impacted by COVID-19.
These groups were identified as populations that were most at risk of being pushed further into the margins, or ones who had a higher than average chance of contracting COVID-19.
They include people who identify as the Poverty and the A.L.I.C.E. Group (A.L.I.C.E. is an acronym for Assets Limited, Income Constrained and Employed and represent the population which is often dubbed “The Working Poor”), Indigenous peoples, people experiencing Homelessness, Vulnerable Youth, Seniors, people affected by Child & Partner Violence, and people experiencing food insecurity.
The United Way says the most pressing needs this week are:
– Working to eliminate barriers such as transportation, and financial limitations by providing easy access for families and individuals to receive basic needs such as food.
– Reminding seniors that it’s okay to not be okay. Supports are available now to help with a variety of things – from loneliness to feet troubles. Dial 211, day or night, or their toll free number 1-877-330-3213; their navigators can direct you to programing available to the community.
– Organizations are working together to create family summer fun kits to help improve mental health in the home.
– Groups working with the homeless are achieving numerous victories in helping individuals; however, they are sadly seeing an increase in opioid misuse and want to make sure people stay safe.
– Children, youth and young adults are needed! Free virtual backyard camp activities, groups, fun events and workshops are being planned this summer. Families can pick and choose and can be done individually, with siblings or as the whole family. Details for registration coming soon.
Organizations wishing to join in on the discussions are asked to sign-up on ckgives.ca or call Scott at United Way of Chatham-Kent office at 519.354.0430 x232.
“When local people work together in a united way – the more resilient the community.”
