By Sheldon Spackman

As the winter season quickly approaches, the United Way of Central Alberta and local 211 phone service are aiming to help out those less fortunate in our community.

United Way officials say they are offering their support for 211, an information and referral service that offers people and families access to a wide variety of community services, including Community Volunteer Tax Clinics so low income residents can get help filing their income taxes and financial support with utility bills so the heat can stay on for families during the anticipated cold winter.

Other initiatives include the Holiday Toy Program, Holiday Meals and Gifts and the Out of the Cold program which provides hot meals and or beds to the homeless and hungry. There is also a Winter Coats, Socks and Boots program, Support for the Homeless program which provides clothing, shelter, boots, sleeping bags and care kits and Meals On Wheels which helps Seniors and the Disabled eat well through the winter and make it to critical medical appointments in any type of weather. Additionally, there are visits and calls to help keep seniors connected and offer cheer during the holidays, recreational opportunities to make friends, get active and reduce isolation and Mental Health programs that connect people to distress lines, crisis programs and support groups.

Essentially, 211 is meant to be the easy way to access financial, emotional and other local supports this winter. United Way of Central Alberta CEO Robert Mitchell, says “Poverty is a far-reaching and complex issue. The challenges it brings are never more difficult than during the winter and holiday season,” adding “United Way partners with agencies throughout our region to support community services that can be accessed through 211. These services help people stay connected and healthy during these cold months, even on a limited income.”