United Way optimistic about reaching $2.47M target

With less than a month left and almost $1 million to go, members of the United Way Thunder Bay are optimistic they can reach their fundraising goal by the end of the year.

United Way campaign chair Wayne Fletcher said this time of year is always hectic as campaign contributions come in. Currently the organization has raised nearly $1.7 million of its $2.47 million goal, and Fletcher said he believes the community will make it there.

"We think that we have a way to get there," Fletcher said. "We’re still optimistic and everyone’s working hard."

Fletcher was at the city of Thunder Bay’s luncheon Thursday where almost 1,000 city employees raised $175,045 for the campaign.

Municipal division campaign chair Carolyn Bush said with the increased need out there this year, she was worried the city wouldn’t be able to contribute as much as it has in the past.

But in the end the city employees raised more than $10,000 this year than they did last year.

"Which is truly incredible," Bush said. "We’re so appreciative of all their efforts this year."


Superior North EMS raised $31,761, the District of Thunder Bay Social Services Administration Board raised $10,322, and the municipal division raised $132,870.