United Way campaign reaches midway point

Ontario Provincial Police Commissioner Chris D. Lewis, a Sault Ste. Marie native, was the guest speaker as the local United Way hosted their mid-campaign community report on Tuesday afternoon.

Lewis addressed those in attendance and spoke of the importance of the United Way, speaking of a colleague of his in southern Ontario, who, prior to joining the force, was aided by the United Way after being fired from a previous job while his wife was pregnant.

That colleague is now an OPP Constable.

The 2011 United Way campaign is roughly $10,000 ahead of the pace set last year, having raised $480,432.31 to this point in the campaign, which began on Sept. 21.

The campaign goal for 2011 is $1.3 million and runs until Dec. 16.

Among the businesses that have made significant contributions recently:

- Soo Mill & Lumber Company: $27,611.18

- PUC: $28, 559.40

- RBC Royal Bank: $5,000

- John Howard Society: $3,050

- Women in Crisis: $3,045

- Scotiabank: $5,000

- Starlight All Night Movies at Galaxy Cinema: $10,000