Stepping Up like never before

Scotiabank StairClimb for United Way defies the odds to improve lives locally

LHSC participating in Scotiabank StairClimb for United Way

COVID-19 couldn’t stop last week’s biggest party — Scotiabank StairClimb for United Way! An annual event and decades-long tradition in the community, COVID-19 couldn’t stop local DoGooders from finding ways to get out there and move to help local people. And while it may have looked a little different, the impact of United Way’s largest fundraising event of the year was more necessary than ever.

“This event isn’t just an annual tradition, it’s visible proof that our community stands up for its most vulnerable members, that’s why this year is so important. Despite the barriers we are all facing, the needs are continuing to grow.”

Kelly Ziegner, CEO and President, United Way Elgin Middlesex

This region has the third-highest child poverty rate in Canada. One in five kids lives in a home that struggles to pay rent and put food on the table. In some neighbourhoods, it’s one in four. Add COVID-19 and everyone is feeling more vulnerable, socially isolated and concerned about the future.

“This event isn’t just an annual tradition, it’s visible proof that our community stands up for its most vulnerable members,” said Kelly Ziegner, CEO and President, United Way Elgin Middlesex. “And that’s why this year is so important. Despite the barriers we are all facing, the needs are continuing to grow.”

But COVID-19 couldn’t stop this year’s participants from getting out there to help local people in need. In place of the grueling 472 step climb to the top of One London Place, the event’s traditional location, teams and individual were challenged to ‘create their own way’ by picking an activity and raising dollars.

With full creative freedom at their fingertips, participants came up with some great ideas! There were walkers and cyclists. There were runners and swimmers and stair climbers and hikers. There were yoga enthusiasts, dog walkers and boot-campers…. a lot of boot-campers! Check out the highlight reel.

Supporters can still get involved by making a donation until November 12, online or in person at United Way’s office at 409 King Street, Monday to Thursday 9am-3pm.

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When a busy neighbourhood centre had to close as part of London’s COVID-19 response strategy, many White Oaks residents were cut off from food and other basic needs. United Way funding helped bring the Emergency Food Cupboard back when the community needed it more than ever…read more.