United Way Annual General Meeting celebrates another record breaking year.

The United Way of Bruce Grey is announcing a fundraising total of $1.1 million for the 2017 year.

"We have focused on growing the organization, building new partnerships and creating new community supports. We are also pleased to be able to continue to support our partner agencies by increasing our allocations each year" states outgoing board chair Nick Lovell.

Lovell highlights the creation of Hope for Our Kids and a renewed partnership with Bruce Grey Child & Family Services and Bruce Power's 3 year pledge of $1.6 million as significant events for 2017.

Another highlight in 2017 was first the interim ban—followed by the permanent ban—on electricity disconnections in winter, something the United Way had been advocating for a decade.

Incoming board chair Virginia McFarland looks forward to more community impact in 2018, "we are just finishing a new 5 year strategic plan and the new Making Grey Bruce Home project will address more need in our community."

At Wednesday night's Annual General Meeting, the United Way will be distributing $167,500 in grants to area organizations that are addressing community needs.

"Our agencies are responding to emerging needs while addressing the current needs in the community, and we are pleased to support their efforts to bring hope back into the lives of vulnerable people in our community" says Executive Director Francesca Dobbyn.

source: media release, United Way of Bruce Grey