KAWARTHA LAKES-The Bobcaygeon and Area COVID-19 Relief Fund has redirected $116,607.45 in the last eight months, helping 512 members of the community through individual and family support.
Officials say this much needed care has come in many ways, including food supplies, transportation, technology, personal items, shelter and mental wellness counselling.
In addition, the Relief Fund has been able to partner with and support 15 community organizations who in turn, are assisting throughout the community according to the group.
“Bobcaygeon continues to need help and our community and neighbours have responded with donations so we can help each other. The outreach remains totally confidential and people continue to apply,” notes Ward 2 Councillor Kathleen-Seymour Fagan who helped start the relief fund. Bobcaygeon and Area community members and health care workers in need of support, due to the negative impacts of COVID-19, should contact Councillor Seymour-Fagan at: kseymourfagan@kawarthalakes.ca.
Funds have been donated by residents in Bobcaygeon and across Kawartha Lakes as well as local businesses and summer residents from the Peterborough area, Cobourg, Toronto and beyond. Early in the pandemic the Bobcaygeon are was hit hard. Local residents came together to form the fund to help those in need.
Donors say they recognize that the need for support will continue for the unforeseen future and contributions to the Relief Fund continue to come in. “Our community has always been there for one another. Sometimes we give and sometimes we need a helping hand,” adds Ann Adare, a volunteer Bobcaygeon Advisor.
“Now more than ever, those of us who can must come together and help. COVID-19 has upended our lives and altered our daily routines, but we are a strong community and with each other, we can make a difference,” says Marlene Morrison Nicholls, President of Stewart Morrison Insurance, which was the first local business to donate providing $10,000 to the relief fund on the first day. “We are very proud to manage this Relief Fund that supports local residents still in need due to this pandemic,” says foundation President Mike Perry. “This is a community in action.”
With the Christmas season here officials want to ensure no one goes without. The Foundation encourages those who can to gift a helping hand through the Bobcaygeon & Area COVID-19 Relief Fund. Supporting your community, your neighbours and making a difference in how others manage through this holiday season.
To learn more, request assistance or to donate, please visit: https://www.kawarthafoundation.ca/bobcaygeon-relief-fund
