United Way chapters on both sides of the Ottawa River are celebrating another successful year for the Move for Youth activity challenge, which raised more than $138,000 this spring to support programs and services for local youth.
The free annual challenge, now in its sixth year, encouraged participants across Renfrew County, Prescott-Russell, Ottawa, Lanark County and the Outaouais region to stay active between May 1 and 15. Organizers say participants collectively logged 30 million steps during the two-week event.
The fundraising campaign has now generated more than $611,000 over six years for youth-focused initiatives supported by local United Way organizations.
United Way officials say the need for youth services continues to grow as families face rising costs and community organizations struggle to keep pace with demand.
“Organizations that families depend on are struggling, and at the same time, demand for these programs, events, and services continues to grow,” said Trisha Islam, director of All That Kids Can Be with United Way East Ontario.
“At United Way, we invest in our communities so that these important programs stay in our communities. We believe that every child and youth should have a safe space to grow up.”
Organizers say the funds raised through Move for Youth help support programs aimed at improving outcomes for young people, including access to recreation, mental health supports and services for youth experiencing homelessness.
United Way says between 1,200 and 1,400 young people experience homelessness in Ottawa each year.
Officials are encouraging residents to register early for next year’s Move for Youth challenge through the event’s website.
(Steve Berard)
