United Way distributes PPE to local charities throughout the valley
Packages of PPE were provided to 50 charities in Penticton, Kelowna and Vernon that included 1000 protective masks, gloves, disinfectant wipes and hand sanitizer.
March 16, 2021 – A year after the COVID-19 pandemic was declared, the need for personal protective equipment (PPE) is still greater than ever especially for front-line community support workers and non-profit organizations. On Tuesday, March 16, 2021, the United Way British Columbia team hosted a Pushor Mitchell Day of Caring® for local charities in need. Packages of PPE were provided to 50 charities in Penticton, Kelowna and Vernon that included 1000 protective masks, gloves, disinfectant wipes and hand sanitizer.
The PPE Day of Caring is made possible thanks to local community and corporate partners like Secure-Rite Mobile Storage who once again have helped United Way with donated storage services as well as a safe and suitable location for the sorting of supplies and will host the Kelowna “drive-thru” pick-ups. In addition, United Way SIBC received 50,000 masks as part of the “One Million Masks Partnership”, a United Way collaboration with Deloitte, TransLink, OEC, Vancouver International Airport (YVR), BC Ferries, BCAA, SCI and BC Transit that recently distributed one million non-medical masks to those who need them across the province. More info at: uwlm.ca/onemillionmasks
Date: Tuesday, March 16, 2021
WHERE and WHEN:
1 – 3 pm: Kelowna – Secure-Rite Mobile Storage, 123 Penno Rd (off Hwy 97)
2 – 4 pm: Penticton – One Sky Community Resources, 330 Ellis St.
2 – 4 pm: Vernon – Prestige Hotel, 4411 – 32nd St.
Since the COVID-19 crisis hit, United Way connected with local charities to assess emerging needs. Many program directors and charity leaders indicated a need for these scarce items and the need continues as the pandemic extends beyond a year.
BACKGROUND: United Way’s across Canada jumped into action as soon as the COVID-19 pandemic started and social distancing mandates were announced. They quickly realized the emerging needs for local charities, front-line community service workers and the vulnerable populations they serve. As a result, the COVID-19 Response and Recovery plan was put into action, first with the launch of an appeal for a relief fund. In collaboration with local community foundations, the fund was quickly supported by local and national corporate partners, government agencies and local donors. In the last year United Way, in partnership with the Government of Canada’s Emergency Community Support Fund, invested $1.9 Million with 94 charities in the region.
Links for more info:
United Way SIBC COVID-19 Relief Fund page: https://unitedwaysibc.com/covid19
Related story: https://unitedwaysibc.com/united-way-hosts-second-round-of-ppe-distribution-across-region/
Thanks from local charities:
A HUGE “THANK YOU” TO EVERYONE for the United Way’s PPE Distribution Day of Caring yesterday!
NOSBIS is very grateful for the PPE that was made available for our use as we continue to implement the safeguards that keep our clients and staff protected from Covid-19. This support by the United Way provides a significant and positive impact on the delivery of our programs and services as we work within the restrictions brought about by Covid-19.
Thanks again to all of the United Way staff and the dedicated volunteers who made this Day of Caring so beneficial to NOSBIS. We are very appreciative.
Kindest regards,
Carlene Duczek
President of the Board of Directors
North Okanagan Shuswap Brain Injury Society (NOSBIS)
Media Coverage:
Castanet – Vernon: United Way donates PPE
Kelowna Capital News: https://www.kelownacapnews.com/news/united-way-donates-ppe-to-50-okanagan-charities/
MOVE 97.1 Penticton Radio: Thanks to Allan Gee for the shoutout!
Global Okanagan News: PPE donated to local charities