When you take part in a United Way fundraiser, you’re helping support a network of local programs that serve people right here in Sarnia-Lambton. Every dollar raised in our current campaign stays in our community and helps fund approved programs. Your participation today ensures those services can continue to make a difference tomorrow.
28 Programs.
16 Agencies.
1 Community.
Current Fundraising Goal
From Poverty To Possibility
United Way is helping people move out of, or avoid, the cycle of poverty with access to nutritious, affordable and appropriate food security and with supports to access emergency shelters and to maintain safe and stable housing.
All That Kids Can Be
Investing in kids so they can succeed in school and develop supportive relationships. Giving children and youth the support they need to make healthy choices and to better handle life’s challenges.
Healthy People, Strong Communities
United Way is creating a strong, inclusive community connecting people of all ages to supports for their personal wellbeing – from addiction and mental health supports to helping seniors live independently.
Current Fundraisers
Thanks A Latte
February 11th is National Latte Day. Coffee Lodge locations in Sarnia and Petrolia will donate $1.00 from every latte sold on this day to United Way of Sarnia-Lambton. Thank you Coffee Lodge for your ongoing support!!
2026 – 2027 Community Investments
Thank you Sarnia-Lambton for helping us reach 97% of our 2025 Goal. The United Way of Sarnia-Lambton volunteer Board of Directors has announced the 2025 campaign achievement of $1,456,318. Thank you to all our volunteers and donors who made this campaign a success.
United Way of Sarnia-Lambton Announces Community Investments Following 2025 Campaign
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Sarnia, ON – January 21, 2026 – United Way of Sarnia-Lambton is proud to announce its 2026-27 community investments, made possible through the generosity of local donors, workplaces, and volunteers who helped the annual campaign reach 97 per cent of its fundraising goal.
While the campaign concluded just shy of its target, the outpouring of community support will still translate into critical funding for local programs and services that help individuals and families across Sarnia-Lambton meet basic needs, build stability, and strengthen long-term wellbeing.
“This community continues to show up for one another,” said Gerry Whitcombe, Volunteer Community Investment Chair. “Reaching 97 per cent of our goal reflects both the economic pressures facing many households and the deep commitment our donors have to caring for their neighbours. Every dollar raised will be put to work right here in our community.”
Following a thorough review process, United Way of Sarnia-Lambton volunteer Board of Directors has approved investments in programs that address urgent needs, including food security, housing stability, transportation, mental health and addiction supports, supports for seniors living in poverty, and programs for youth that help them succeed in school and develop positive life and social skills.
“These investments are about impact,” said Whitcombe. “Even in a challenging year, the funds raised will help local agencies continue delivering frontline services and responding to increased demand. Our community partners are seeing more people needing help, and these investments will make a real difference.”
United Way of Sarnia-Lambton works with funded agencies to ensure donor dollars are used effectively, efficiently, and with measurable outcomes that strengthen the entire community.
United Way of Sarnia-Lambton focus areas are; From Poverty to Possibility, Healthy People, Strong Communities, and All That Kids Can Be.
A total of 27 programs provided by 16 Agencies will be funding in 2026/27. (see complete listing attached) Of all the program applications, 22 will be maintained at their current level, 4 will see an increase in funding, 1 new program will be added and 2 programs will no longer receive funding.
United Way extends its sincere thanks to everyone who contributed to the campaign and continues to support a stronger, more caring Sarnia-Lambton.
2026/27 United Way of Sarnia-Lambton Community Investments
Big Brothers Big Sisters 1:1 Matching Program $80,000
Big Brothers Big Sisters Big Bunch Program $20,000
Big Brothers Big Sisters Go Girls Game On Program $30,000
Big Brothers Big Sisters In School Mentoring Program $18,000
BGC (Boys & Girls Club) Out of School Program $94,907
BGC Summer Day Camp $16,800
Canadian Red Cross Subsidized Transportation $58,000
Canadian Red Cross Subsidized Meals on Wheels $31,000
Canadian Red Cross Homeward Bound Program $30,000
Family Counselling Centre Subsidized Counellling $87,000
Family Counselling Centre Tel Chek Program $13,000
Habitat for Humanity Handyman Program $22,500
The Inn Of The Good Shepherd Income Tax Clinics $36,000
John Howard Society Recreation for Resilience Program $60,000
LEO (Lambton Elderly Outreach) Subsidized Transportation $55,000
LEO Subsidized Meals on Wheels $16,600
New Beginnings, ABI & Stroke Recovery Community Integration $42,500
North Lambton Community Health Centre Opening Doors Program $60,000
River City Vineyard Shelter Security $82,000
Rebound Early Intervention and Prevention Program $50,000
Salvation Army Rent & Utility Assistance $40,000
Salvation Army Medical Assistance $10,000
Salvation Army Dental Assistance $10,000
Salvation Army Hearing Aid Assistance $10,000
VON Student School Food Nutrition Program $16,650
Walpole Island First Nation Warming Shelter $55,000
YMCA Resource Houses (3) $93,600
Donor Directed Gifts to other Registered Charities $78,000
