The 12th annual United Way Drive-Thru Breakfast was held at the Penticton Lakeside Resort, where local officials, businesses, and community members gathered early in the morning to hand out breakfast and collect donations for United Way BC. Penticton’s Mayor Julius Bloomfield emphasized the importance of keeping the donations within the local area to help those in need in the city. The event raised $22,165, falling short of the initial fundraising goal of $30,000, but the money raised goes directly back into the community to make a positive impact.
One organization that has benefited from United Way funding in Penticton is the South Okanagan Similkameen Brain Injury Society, which received funding to help individuals experiencing homelessness in the area. The society was able to hire a full-time support worker and has already connected with about 32 people, making a significant difference in their lives. This showcases the tangible impact that donations to United Way can have on the local community and how it can help those in need access essential resources and support.
This year, the fundraising efforts at the event were focused on collecting money for child and youth mental health in the South Okanagan. The funds raised will go towards supporting local organizations such as the Foundry, Boys and Girls Clubs, the Canadian Mental Health Association, and the Lower Similkameen Community Food Hub Farm and Garden. The goal is to provide essential support and resources for children and youth in the community to ensure a healthy and inclusive environment that addresses mental health challenges at a young age.
Naomi Woodland, the United Way Central and South Okanagan Similkameen regional co-ordinator, highlighted the importance of early intervention and support for children and youth, as experiences in childhood can impact individuals later in life. The focus on child and youth mental health aims to address vulnerabilities and ensure that necessary supports are in place to create a healthy and inclusive community. Kris Gibson, the United Way corporate relations provincial director, emphasized the need to raise funds to invest back into the community and support local kids and youth programs to address vulnerability and promote well-being.
Overall, the United Way Drive-Thru Breakfast in Penticton showcased the community coming together to support a worthy cause and make a positive impact on those in need. Despite falling short of the fundraising goal, the event raised significant funds that will directly benefit the local community, with a focus on child and youth mental health. The success stories of organizations like the South Okanagan Similkameen Brain Injury Society highlight the tangible impact of United Way funding in providing essential support and resources to individuals in need. As the community continues to show support and raise awareness for important causes, the hope is to create a healthier, more inclusive environment for all residents, especially children and youth facing vulnerabilities.
