WINDSOR, Canada—Today, Stellantis Canada announced that Unifor Locals 444, 195, 1498, and their retirees raised $746,756.24 through their workplace campaign, marking the largest donation to this year's initiative.
The funds will directly support United Way’s education-focused programs for local youth, particularly those in low-income areas. Lorraine Goddard, CEO of United Way Centraide Windsor-Essex Chatham-Kent, highlighted the importance of these efforts. “In some neighborhoods, 1 in 3 children are growing up in low-income households, which significantly affects their academic performance,” she stated.
The donation will support programs like On Track to Success, which helps youth graduate high school and pursue post-secondary education. The initiative provides mentoring, tutoring, career learning opportunities, and financial assistance to help students achieve their academic goals. Goddard emphasized that these efforts aim to break the cycle of poverty by removing barriers for children and their families, ensuring they have access to basic needs and educational support.
David Bellaire, Plant Manager at the Windsor Assembly Plant, praised the generosity of the plant’s employees. “Our workers understand the importance of giving back, and this donation is another example of their commitment to the community.”
The announcement took place at General Brock Public School in Windsor, which participates in the United Way’s Ignite Academy. This after-school program targets students in grades 2–7 in neighborhoods with high poverty rates, aiming to improve literacy and math skills.
The funds raised will ensure that programs like Ignite Academy continue to support local youth, helping them succeed academically and create brighter futures.