United Way Thanks Community for Successful Campaign

Friday, 27 March 2026 06:48

United Way Oxford raised $1,315,358 during its latest fundraising campaign.

WOODSTOCK - United Way Oxford's fundraising campaign was a huge success once again!

Executive Director Kelly Gilson says they were able to raise $1,315,358 over the past few months.

"We always say it takes a village, and this is a perfect example of how the community really does care about everyone by coming together to make that difference. We're truly grateful."

The funds were raised in a variety of different ways including payroll donations, corporate sponsorships, small workplace events, and United Way's large fundraisers like the Ultimate Burger Battle and the Student Stair Climb.

Gilson says United Way recently completed its full allocation process, so funds raised will support local causes that full under their three main pillars: All That Kids Can Be, From Poverty to Possibility, and Building Strong Communities.

"We have our regular ongoing partnerships with organizations like Big Brothers Big Sisters, the Navy League, the Oxford County Community Health Centre, and so many more. We also have some really unique sometimes one-off or temporary opportunities to help an organization when they find themselves missing a little something. So we're investing broadly across Oxford."

Even though the official fundraising campaign has come to a close and the next one won't be kicking off until September, Gilson says members of the public are always welcome to donate to United Way year-round.

"Although people think of us as launching in the fall and wrapping up in the New Year, in this day and age we are available all year round for folks. Whether it's through employee giving, online, or any other way that they care to make a donation to support their community."

United Way Oxford hosted it's Community Celebration at the Sally Creek Community Centre last night, so it could announce the fundraising total and present 10 Community Impact Awards to local partners. You can find the list of recipients below:

Community Commitment Award: Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada (TMMC)

Corporate Support and Engagement Award: Pow Engineering

Local Love Award: Adams Building Supply

Quantum Leap Award: Enbridge Gas

Spirit of Community Award: The Mill Inn and Eatery

Employee Campaign Champion Award: Ayumi Sanada STC Steel Technologies Canada

Outstanding Campaign Award: Woodstock Hospital

Special Appreciation Award: Christina Ward

Community Connection Award: 104.7 Heart FM

Tribute to the Years of Support Award: GM Cami and Unifor Local 88