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www.oakvillebeaver.com · OAKVILLE BEAVER Friday, December 4, 2009 · 34 Donations give dignity I f you've fallen on hard times, you're not alone. Many are faltering in the wake of the recession. Feeling it even more are those who leave abusive partnerships in search of a new life. Others have lost their job and can no longer pay monthly bills and are at risk of losing their home. Still others need assistance for mental health issues. Many of us have never had to use the service of a United Way agency, but life is unpredictable and fragile, and you never know when your circumstances may change. Everyone deserves dignity. The agency programs and services supported by United Way of Oakville (UWO) help people in need, and as a result, ensure a healthier community for us all. Unfortunately, while UWO agencies help thousands of people in our community, there is still work to be done. There is even more to be done because of the challenging economic times recently. With the 2009 campaign set to conclude next week, we need help meeting our goal. Consider this: A donation of about $10 will provide a therapy dog to visit seven individuals in a hospital, senior home or nursing home. A donation of about $20 helps one youth who has experienced violence in a personal relationship access a series of skill building and self-care workshops to promote self acceptance, higher self-esteem and self-assertiveness. A donation of about $55 provides one local resident with mental illness the opportunity to attend education courses on a variety of topics including coping with stress, seminars on suicide intervention skills and anger management. A donation of about $170 provides one woman in crisis with an immediate one-on-one support service to help with everything from safety plans to coping skills. Your support helps us ensure that we continue to meet the critical needs of our community. So when someone -- a friend, a family member, a coworker -- is facing one of life's more serious challenges, they will have somewhere to turn. We are extremely proud of our agencies and the work they do, and want you to know that they are there for you, should you or someone you know ever need a hand. For more information about United Way, our agencies, or how to make a donation, visit www.uwoakville.org or call 905-845-5571. Thank you for your support. -- Submitted by United Way of Oakville (UWO)