The United Way of Sarnia-Lambton kicks off its annual fundraising campaign Tuesday, with the popular Day of Caring.
Over 100 volunteers will be helping out with odd jobs around the county as part of the popular community event.
The work ranges from painting, cleaning, gardening and yard work to building wheelchair ramps, decks, storage sheds or minor plumbing installations.
Director of Development and Communications Ryan Doyle said it's a tradition that dates back 30 years.
"It's a great opportunity for people around the city, for industry partners, to send in volunteers to go to different locations in Sarnia-Lambton and help out with different tasks," said Doyle. "It's a nice way to show people how they can give back and volunteer. It also helps us spread the word that our campaign is starting."
Doyle said a minimum of $1.5 million is needed to fund the current programs and services they support.
"One of the programs I love talking about is the school nutrition program, so making sure every student has access to a safe and affordable or free meal," he said. "We also have a lot of seniors' programs. Meals on Wheels makes sure that seniors can get a meal when they need to if they're in a tough spot."
They're already off to a good start, having brought in 28 per cent of the goal.
Over $415,000 has been raised with help from golf tournaments put on by Enbridge and Pembina, and through the Sarnia Sting's Black and White game.
The United Way provides funding for 28 local programs offered through 16 agencies across the community, including Big Brothers Big Sisters Sarnia-Lambton, Inn of the Good Shepherd, Lambton Elderly Outreach and Rebound.
Donations can be made by visiting the United Way's website, by calling their office at 519-336-5452, or visiting them at 1362 Lambton Mall Road, Unit 10.
The 2024 campaign surpassed the $1,487,000 target by $3,000.
