Grants to Sarnia-Lambton Organizations Meet Community Needs

Sarnia, Ontario — The United Way of Sarnia-Lambton was able to approve two Critical Service grants to supplement and bring much needed services to the community. They approved grants to the St. Vincent de Paul Food Bank and the Walpole Island First Nation Warming Shelter.

St. Vincent de Paul food bank has received an increase in requests for cleaning supplies and vitamins along with fresh food. Senior citizens have also requested more nutritional supplement drinks, hygiene items, and diabetic supplies. The $20,000 grant from the United Way of Sarnia-Lambton will help meet those needs along with assisting clients who need help paying for dental work.

Susan Platt, Manager, St. Vincent de Paul in the food bank.

A $30,000 grant went to the Walpole Island First Nation Warming Shelter which will allow the shelter to expand and add a space specifically for women. The shelter currently cares for over 20 individuals each night, and the expansion will make room for more clients.

James Jenkins, CEO, Walpole Island First Nations and Larissa Wrightman, Community Planning and Political Office Assistant at the Warming Centre.

Jason Killingsworth, United Way volunteer Board President, said, “As the pandemic continues, we have to determine how to best support our local community given the increase in need for services. The approval of these grant speaks to the incredible work being done across Sarnia-Lambton.”

Reporting for WGRT – Jessie Wiegand