The Journey of United Way in Chatham-Kent: A 76-Year Legacy of Support
Founded in Chatham in 1948, our United Way emerged from a deep sense of community and compassion in the post-war era. Local volunteers from the Chamber of Commerce and the Labour Council came together, inspired by the leadership of Sydney Amherst Morse, then President and General Manager of Union Gas Ltd. Their vision laid the groundwork for a powerful tradition of support.
For 76 years, our United Way has been a steadfast ally in Chatham-Kent, dedicated to uplifting and empowering our most vulnerable residents. As we honor our past, we remain focused on listening to our community, adapting to its evolving needs, and building a brighter future together.
As we reflect on our 76-year journey of support and dedication, we are excited to announce a new chapter that promises to strengthen our impact even further. By uniting with United Way Centraide Windsor-Essex, we are merging our resources and expertise to better serve both Chatham-Kent and Windsor-Essex. This collaboration marks a significant step forward in our recommitment to addressing the unique needs of our communities while continuing our legacy of hope and support.
Stronger Together: Uniting for a Brighter Future in Windsor-Essex and Chatham-Kent
We’re thrilled to announce that United Way Centraide Windsor-Essex Chatham-Kent has joined forces to enhance our support for both communities. By combining the strengths of United Way Chatham-Kent and United Way Centraide Windsor-Essex, we’re positioned to make an even greater impact across the region. Together, we are shaping a brighter future.
We recognize the importance of addressing the unique needs of each community. That’s why every donation you make for Chatham-Kent will remain in Chatham-Kent, and every gift for Windsor-Essex will stay in Windsor-Essex. Your contributions are vital to creating meaningful, local change right here in your community. Thank you for helping us create a brighter future together!
From Crisis to Community: How United Way’s Tilbury Information and H.E.L.P. Centre became Lori’s Lifeline
Imagine stepping out on a routine winter’s day, only to have your life changed by a sudden accident. That’s what happened to Lori whose severe injury threw her and her family into uncertain times. Beyond her physical pain, her family now faced mounting challenges of financial uncertainty, but thanks to a caring community of generous donors and volunteers, the Tilbury Information and H.E.L.P. Centre, a direct service of United Way was able to provide Lori some relief and a renewed sense of hope.
Lori’s Journey:
“My life has been filled with many of the same experiences that might be familiar to you. I grew up in a loving family, went to school, worked, and enjoyed life’s milestones like vacations, marriage, and raising my two sons. For years, I worked as a waitress in Windsor, a job I truly loved. I was good at it—managing tables, handling the cash register, and even cooking. My job brought me joy and a sense of accomplishment, and I was fortunate to have a supportive boss.
But life changed dramatically one winter’s day for me when I slipped on ice and fell down a flight of stairs. The injuries I sustained were severe and life-altering. I was informed that my injuries were serious enough to leave me on disability for life.
My husband Roger also faced significant health challenges, and we found ourselves struggling during that time. It was then that Roger discovered United Way’s Tilbury Information and H.E.L.P. Centre, which proved to be a true lifeline for us. The Centre provided us with two large boxes of food and some essential school supplies for our sons, which made a tremendous difference in stretching our monthly income further.
Seeing how much the Centre had helped us, Roger felt wanted to give back. He began volunteering as a van driver, assisting others with their medical appointments. For ten years, Roger dedicated his time to this role, and our sons also joined in, volunteering at the Centre.
As I began to regain my footing, starting with small steps like grocery shopping and spending more time with my family, I decided to reach out and offer my own help. I started volunteering at the Centre, learning various tasks from operating the photocopier to managing donations. This experience gave me a renewed sense of purpose and connection, and I discovered how fulfilling it was to support the Centre’s mission and assist others in need.
The Tilbury Information and Help Centre, supported by the United Way of Windsor-Essex Chatham-Kent, has been a beacon of hope for our family. Volunteering at the Centre has been incredibly rewarding. Seeing people leave with smiles and knowing that our work makes a difference fills me with pride. My involvement with the Centre has given me a sense of belonging and purpose and for that I am so grateful. I’m also proud that my grandsons are now beginning to volunteer at the Centre.
Sharing my story, is a new experience for me, and although I have some fears of opening up. I felt it was important to let others know how United Way and the Tilbury Information and H.E.L.P. Centre has profoundly impacted my family.
Life can be unpredictable, and while I never imagined I would face chronic pain or need any assistance from a food bank, I am deeply grateful for the support that has made such a significant difference in our lives. I hope people always remember the vital role that organizations like the United Way Tilbury Information and H.E.L.P. Centre play in times of need and that your support helps ensure that these crucial services continue to be available for those who need them most.
Thank you to all the donors for being part of a community that makes such a meaningful impact, your generosity truly changes lives.”
Tilbury Information and H.E.L.P Centre
At the Tilbury Information and H.E.L.P. Centre, we are dedicated to supporting our community by offering essential services to those in need. We provide emergency food assistance, help with social housing applications, and support with resume writing. Our community-use computers are available for job searches and online tasks, and we offer information and referral services to connect individuals with additional resources. Our mission is to empower and uplift those we serve through compassionate and effective support. To learn more about our programs or to get involved through volunteering or donations, please contact us. Together, we can make a positive difference in our community.
Your Gift Changes Lives
We’re excited about the incredible difference we can make together. By collaborating with local leaders, businesses, nonprofits, grassroots groups, and all levels of government, your contributions will directly support those in need.
Your future support will be the driving force behind a stronger, more vibrant community. By donating today, you’re helping us address local needs to strengthen our community.
Every dollar you give stays right here in Chatham-Kent, making a real impact where it’s needed most.
Donate now to be a part of this vital effort.
Together, we can create lasting change and build a brighter future for everyone in our community.
BaCK to School 2024-2025
School may be out for the summer, but we’re already thinking about fall and how we can support student success through 2024-2025!
Each year, the requests for essential school supplies and learning supports grow.
We hope you’ll join us in supporting student success across Chatham-Kent!
BaCK to School programs for 2024-2025 include 2 great initiatives that you can support:
The Gift Card Program allows families to choose the items that are right for their child’s individual needs at the start of the new school year.
The Teachers’ Totes Program continues the care for our students in the classroom, filling gaps in learning environments and helping to ensure that every student has what they need to succeed.
Donate a Car
Donate a Car Canada accepts Vehicle Donations for United Way Centraide Windsor-Essex Chatham-Kent. Free towing is provided in most areas across Canada, or you can drop off your vehicle to maximize your donation. When you donate your car, truck, RV, boat, or motorcycle to United Way Centraide Windsor-Essex Chatham-Kent through Donate A Car Canada, it will either be recycled or sold at auction (depending on its condition, age and location). Donate a Car Canada will look after all the details to make it easy for United Way Centraide Windsor-Essex Chatham-Kent to benefit. After your vehicle donation is complete, you will receive a tax receipt and we will put your gift to good use.
Stay Tuned for More Resources for Chatham-Kent!
Keep an eye out as we continue to roll out additional valuable resources for the Chatham-Kent region. We’re committed to expanding our support and providing even more opportunities to make a positive impact in our community.
Stay connected to see how you can get involved and help us make a difference!
Our Locations
Chatham-Kent Office
425 McNaughton Avenue West
Chatham, ON N7L 4K4
Tel: 519-354-0430
Monday – Friday 8:30am – 4:30pm
Tilbury Information and H.E.L.P. Centre
26 Queen Street North
Tilbury, ON N0P 2L0
Tel: 519-354-0430
Monday – Friday 9:00am – 4:00pm