86th annual campaign goal reflects rising needs in KFL&A community
KINGSTON, ON (September 10, 2026) – United Way Kingston, Frontenac, Lennox and Addington will aim to raise $4,250,000 during its annual fall fundraising campaign. This goal represents the increased needs in the community as many continue to struggle with rising costs and uncertainty. The goal was revealed this year at the Double Tree by Hilton at 1550 Princess Street with nearly 500 community members attending.
“Kickoff is always an exciting time,” said Krista Wells Pearce, 2026 United Way KFL&A Campaign Chair. “Our Campaign Cabinet volunteers have been hard at work planning, meeting and laying the foundation for another strong campaign. I am excited to work with my fellow volunteers, United Way staff and community members to make the 2026 campaign another great success.”
The 2026 Campaign Goal represents an increase of $165,000 over the goal set in 2025 and reflects the continued growing needs in the community. The annual campaign raises funds that are then invested locally in programs that support community members in vulnerable situations. United Way KFL&A plays a crucial role in our community, ensuring a strong network of programs and services work together to respond to urgent issues and create long-term solutions.
“In our community, local agencies are facing increased demand while also managing rising costs and uncertainty. We need to continue to support each other,” said Wells Pearce. “As a longtime United Way volunteer and professional working in the healthcare sector, I see every day how deeply health and wellbeing are connected to community support. When people have access to nutritious food, safe spaces, mental health services, housing and meaningful connections, lives change for the better.”
Volunteers representing workplaces in the community gathered at the breakfast and heard from an agency speaker, emphasizing the needs in the community. They also heard about many workplaces gearing up for their own campaigns with events like BBQ’s, bake sales, food truck lunches and most importantly personalized employee giving. Workplace Giving makes up a large portion of the campaign total with more than 130 workplaces contributing through individual campaigns.
“We are grateful for the support of so many workplaces throughout the community and I’m looking forward to attending events, meeting donors and volunteers and working together to change our tomorrow, today,” added Wells Pearce.
This year’s campaign will also receive a boost from the renewal of two Leadership Challenge Grants and a Friend Challenge Grant; The Britton Smith Foundation has generously put forward the Leadership Challenge Grant this year and donors who give at the Leadership level − giving $1,200 or more for the first time − will have their donation matched to a maximum amount. Donors who are already “Leaders of the Way” and add at least 10% to their previous year’s gift will also see their increased donation matched under the Leadership Grant.
In addition, the Women United Challenge Grant will also be offered. The grant is generously donated by Judith Gould and specifically encourages women to donate at the leadership level, matching their gift as well.
Donors will also have an opportunity to increase the impact of their donation thanks to Alliance Security and Communications generously providing a Friends of United Way Challenge Grant to encourage community members to give at the Friend level (donations of $500-$1,199). By making a donation at this level for the first time, donations will be matched by 50% up to a maximum amount.
“We are incredibly grateful for the Britton Smith Foundation, Judith Gould and Alliance Security and Communications for their continued leadership and support of this year’s campaign. These grants really help increase the impact of every donation at these levels,” said Wells Pearce. “We are asking community members who are able to show their support by giving or continuing to give if they can. Your generosity helps build a future rooted in hope, dignity, and a sense of belonging. Every donation makes a difference right here in KFL&A.”
The campaign wraps up November 26, 2026. For more information and updates, please visit www.unitedwaykfla.ca.
About United Way KFL&A
United Way Kingston Frontenac Lennox & Addington works closely with community partners to ensure that people have the opportunity to reach their full potential and live with hope, dignity, and a sense of belonging. This vision is realized by building on deep-rooted local community knowledge and relationships to empower people to make an impact.
The United Way raises funds for programs that support immediate needs while also tackling complex social issues collaboratively. Led by volunteers, driven by a small professional staff team, the United Way KFL&A is a unifying force, encouraging people to get involved to support our most vulnerable.
Stay up to date by following their social media channels – Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn or visit www.unitedwaykfla.ca
Media Contact:
Mandy Pasch, Director, Marketing and Communications
United Way KFL&A
613-876-3088, marketing@unitedwaykfla.ca
