Centraide Campaign 2010 - The outpouring of generosity continues: $55,150,000

$862,000 more to step up the fight against poverty

MONTREAL, Dec. 15 /CNW Telbec/ - Centraide's annual campaign ended today on a gratifying note, posting a better result than anticipated. Thanks to the generosity of donors and the determination of volunteers, the amount raised came to $55,150,000, which is $862,000 more than last year. This money will be used to better meet the needs of people in difficulty in Greater Montreal (Montreal Island, Laval, South Shore), where 18% of the population lives under the low income threshold. That's 5% higher than the average rate in Quebec province as a whole. On Montreal Island alone, 23% of the population lives in poverty.

This year's campaign marks a new impetus for Centraide, whose annual fundraising result had levelled off at $54 million since 2007. The growth achieved will make it possible not only to provide continuing funding to 360 community agencies, but also to support more projects to fight poverty, which particularly affects children, youth and families.

Over 1,700 workplaces held a Centraide campaign this year. Donations from organizations and their employees accounted for the lion's share or 80% of the total amount raised.

"Support came from all sectors: business, the unions, government employees, the community agencies. Everyone rolled up their sleeves to make a success of this campaign. It makes one proud to be associated with such a vast movement of mutual aid and caring," said Sophie Brochu, President and CEO of Gaz Métro, who co-chaired the campaign with Norman Hébert, Jr., President and CEO of Groupe Park Avenue.

"This result is an eloquent measure of the generosity of the citizens of Greater Montreal. Each dollar testifies to the efforts and amazing work accomplished by everyone involved. Together, we have completed another crucial stage in our project to build a better society for all," said Mr. Hébert.

"I was a privileged witness to the involvement of innumerable people who demonstrated considerable energy and altruism. They held fundraising activities, raised awareness of community needs among their co-workers, built ties in the community and in the agencies they visited. It's very inspiring and encouraging," said Michèle Thibodeau-DeGuire, President and Executive Director of Centraide of Greater Montreal.

About Centraide

Centraide of Greater Montreal is an independent organization managed by a board of directors which is representative of the community. It serves the Island of Montreal, Laval and communities on the South Shore. More than 160,000 people contribute financially to Centraide's campaign, mainly through payroll deduction. Centraide supports 360 agencies and projects that help half a million people. There are 18 autonomous Centraides in Quebec, each managed by an independent board of directors which is representative of the community it serves.

For further information:

Annick Gagnon, Public Relations Coordinator
Tel.: [phone], ext. 242
[email protected]
www.centraide-mtl.org