-by Anne Finlay-Stewart

United Way of Bruce Grey is appreciative and thankful for every donor, big and small, who responded after the August 10th fires in Owen Sound. "The outpouring of community support surpassed anything we could have imagined," said chair Dave Myette following a meeting of the United Way board Wednesday evening.

Myette said it is now time to seek experienced, skilled help for the next stage – administering the donated funds. "We are not insurance adjusters. We are looking for someone with this expertise." Whether this individual is able to volunteer their time or is paid out of the administrative budget, United Way wants independent verification of the losses and expenses to assure that everyone involved in the fire and the aftermath is compensated. "This is our responsiblity to the victims, and to the donors," said Myette. "Nothing is being squandered and noone will profit; neither the victims nor the agency, and the independent administrator will ensure that."

An update on the status of the fund will be provided to the community on November 1, after the last person has moved into permanent housing. "We will detail how much has been spent, what it has been spent on, and how much remains," said Myette.

It is unlikely that everything will be settled by then. Some people may receive compensation in a variety of ways spread over time to ensure that they do not lose other benefits. One donation was specifically earmarked for ongoing tenants' insurance so that none of those affected is in this precarious position again. In the event that the adjuster should determine there is a surplus of funds over and above those needed for compensation for losses, United Way will seek input from donors on how they would like that money to be used.

While the board meeting was going on, the Noon-Hour Concert Series musicians were holding a fundraiser down the street for those affected by the fires. This is still at the top of the community's agenda. But the meeting room was stacked with backpacks for the United Way's annual back-to-school program, and the regular campaigns, phone calls and advocacy with utility companies continue. It is time to hand the fire fund over to those with special expertise and get back to the daily work of the United Way. There are unmet needs in both Grey and Bruce Counties every day that demand their attention.

Total raised: $260 000

- Support to victims already paid: $22 600

- Y Housing – CHIPI funding repayment $2 5000

- SHB - $7 400

- ID clinic CMHA - $650