United Way Northumberland reports on record impact
Photo provided by the United Way Northumberland.
By Cecilia Nasmith
United Way Northumberland officially launched its 2026-27 campaign Tuesday at a breakfast that also celebrated what their press release termed a record year of impact.
Those gathered at the Best Western Plus Cobourg Inn and Convention Centre for the event heard that the 2025-26 campaign surpassed its $750,000 fundraising target to raise $851,487 in support of such programs as Northumberland Eats, Haven For All, Backpacks for Kids, Period Promise and Hygiene Cabinets, Community Matters and Day of Caring.
Another piece of good news is the report that United Way served 24,443 people through 118 funded partners in 2025-26 – up from 17,101 people and 63 funded partners the previous year.
Looking ahead, the new campaign goal is $875,000, and new initiatives will include expansion of food-security initiatives across rural communities and a first-ever Trent Hills Day of Caring.
The growing reach comes at a time when financial pressures are felt by households across the country. United Way Centraide Canada's latest Financial Anxiety Index found 60% of people in Canada feel anxious when thinking about their personal finances, while 46% say they could cover basic expenses for only one month or less before falling into debt. The findings helped frame Tuesday's discussion around why listening to community needs and looking out for one another continue to matter.
The work of United Way extends well beyond fundraising. As a convenor, collaborator and advocate, the organization works with residents, businesses, community organizations and other partners to identify emerging needs, connect resources and invest where they can make a meaningful local difference.
As the 2026-27 campaign gets underway, United Way Northumberland pledged to continue listening to what people and organizations across the county are experiencing, connecting people and resources, and creating more opportunities for residents and workplaces to take part in this important work.
