Give back to the community at the United Way Community Donation Drive
The giving season is upon us, and the United Way says many people in the Kingston community are looking for ways to help their fellow community members who may be in need this year.
The pandemic has been difficult for many in KFL&A and as the effects of COVID-19 continue, so do the needs, according to a release from the United Way, dated Wednesday, Dec. 2, 2020. The United Way says food, household items, clothing and hygiene products are all expensive, and with the holidays around the corner, many in the community could use some assistance.
Earlier this year, United Way KFL&A, with the help of many generous community partners, ran a successful Backpack Campaign and Coat Drive; a winter Community Donation Drive continues this response to growing needs in the community, according to the release. The Leon’s Centre contacted the United Way to see how they could help.
Lynn Carlotto, Leon’s Centre General Manager, states “Leon’s Centre remains a vital part of Kingston, in spite of the fact that COVID-19 has completely shut down our operations. Although closed, we want to do what we can for the community. Our central location, easy drop-off parking and open concourse space make Leon’s Centre the ideal place for a drive. In addition, the Kingston Frontenacs are happy to help make this a huge success for our community. Together we look forward to welcoming all our fans back just as soon as it is safe to do so.”
The United Way encourages community members to donate non-perishable food items, hygiene products, and new clothing items including warm accessories like hats, mitts, scarves and socks. Gently used boots and coats for children and adults will also be accepted, according to the release. A full list of suggested items can be found at https://www.unitedwaykfla.ca/holidaygiving/
“It is clear that people are looking for ways to help people during the pandemic and into the holiday season. And we know that many community members may be planning donation drives in their own workplaces or with family and friends already,” says United Way KFL&A President and CEO Bhavana Varma. “With the help of our agency partners, these donations will make their way to where they are needed most.”
Donations will be accepted from December 7 – 11, and December 14 – 18, 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Gate 4 of the Leon’s Centre on The Tragically Hip Way, and a special guest from the Frontenacs may even make an appearance to help collect throughout the drive, the United Way says in the release. These items will be sorted by volunteers as they come in and will then be distributed through local agencies.
“United Way is grateful for this partnership with the Leon’s Centre and the Kingston Frontenacs, and their generosity in making sure there is a time and place to drop off these items,” adds Varma. “This donation drive will help to ensure that our most vulnerable community members will continue to receive the supports they need in these challenging times.”
For more information about the Community Donation Drive, please visit https://www.unitedwaykfla.ca/communitydonationdrive