Every dollar truly does count.
The United Way of Northern BC (UWNBC) has released its final numbers for the 2019 Festival of Lights, reaching its fundraising goal of $25,000.
The final total? UWNBC beat the goal by a whole $4, coming in at $25,004 after deciding to extend the campaign into the new year.
United Way decided to put the funds raised toward mental health supports in the Prince George area.
Recipients will be organizations like the Canadian Mental Health Association, Foundry and Intersect Youth and Family Services.
During an event in December, board member Jennifer Alexander revealed the United Way raised $20,375 of the $25,000 goal.
“This is an unexpected and extraordinary way to finish out this incredible campaign," UWNBC Interim Executive Director Trista Spencer said in a release.
"We cannot express our gratitude enough for the generous contributions made by so many people and organizations that made the Tree of Lights such a success. To have achieved our $25,000 goal speaks directly to the compassion and generosity of the people in Prince George. The enthusiasm for this campaign was contagious, and the team at United Way had so much fun bringing this holiday beacon of hope to the community – we are already looking forward to doing it again!”
“The impact of these funds will far outweigh what we can measure…the impact of your support will be in places we cannot even see. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.”
After a two-year absence, the Tree of Lights returned to Prince George thanks to the United Way of Northern BC, who stepped up to bring the event back to the northern capital originally held in 2016 and organized by the Salvation Army.
- with files from Hanna Petersen, PrinceGeorgeMatters
