United Way Of Sarnia-Lambton Surpasses Fundraising Goal, Raises $1.42M For Community Programs

In a remarkable achievement, the United Way of Sarnia-Lambton proudly announced that its 2023 fundraising campaign has not only met but exceeded expectations, raising an impressive $1,420,000, nearly 101.4% of the initial target of $1.4 million. 

Vicky Ducharme, the 2023 United Way Campaign Chair, expressed gratitude for the community’s support and revealed that key anonymous donations played a crucial role in surpassing the goal. She highlighted that, despite the official goal being $1.4M, the actual community needs are closer to $1.6M.

The success comes after the United Way faced challenges during the COVID pandemic, missing previous fundraising goals. The campaign anticipates ending near 104%, supporting 18 agencies and 30 local programs, primarily focused on poverty-related services, youth programming, and community well-being.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

State Rep. Mike Harris Urges Committee Action On GOP Plan To Revamp Troubled Unemployment Insurance Agency

State Representative Mike Harris (R-Waterford) pressed the House Ethics and Oversight Committee to deliberate on a comprehensive plan, introduced by House Republicans, aimed at overhauling Michigan’s Unemployment Insurance Agency (UIA). The call for action follows an audit released Wednesday by Michigan’s nonpartisan Office of the Auditor General, revealing systemic failures within the UIA during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

The audit disclosed negligence by the UIA in investigating improper payments, leading Rep. Harris to challenge Governor Whitmer’s assurances that the issues were resolved. “Our tax dollars went to the incarcerated and deceased just a year ago. Democrat policies have burdened employers, leaving countless individuals jobless through no fault of their own,” says Harris. 

The proposed GOP reforms focus on transparency, fraud prevention, and enhanced customer service for both unemployed workers and contributing employers.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Americans Anticipate Increased Take-Home Pay In 2024 As Higher Federal Tax Brackets And Deductions Take Effect

Effective beginning in January, Americans are poised to experience a potential boost in their take-home pay in 2024, as the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) ushers in higher federal income tax brackets and standard deductions. 

The IRS, addressing concerns about “bracket creep,” announced these adjustments in November, with the intention of preventing taxpayers from being pushed into higher-income brackets due to inflation. 

In a year where inflation remains higher than the pre-pandemic average and the Federal Reserve’s 2% target, the 5.4% increase in tax brackets is expected to result in substantial savings for taxpayers across all income levels. As the adjustments take effect, millions of Americans may find relief in shielding more of their income from IRS scrutiny.

For more information, visit: irs.gov.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell