In spite of the tough economic situation for many in the area the Fort McMurray United Way has set a very ambitious fundraising goal for their efforts over the next few months, $8 million. According to the United Way region spokesperson Russell Thomas the goal may seem daunting but it is necessary. “(The board) really felt that, looking out over the next twelve months, there was no question that the demand on the agencies were going to go up,. They felt really strongly about the focus of this campaign being about meeting the needs that exist in the community. While it may seem daunting, in light of the economy, I think (the board is) really trusting the nature of people in Fort McMurray, which is to rise to a challenge and to look after each other. We are hoping that we are going to be able to reach more people with that story…there’s a high level of optimism, at the various teams that are out at site and in town here that they are going to be able to do that.”
When times get tough and the economic situation is bleak more people in the area turn to agencies like the Fort McMurray United Way for assistance that they need. The $8 million fundraising goal reflects an accurate prediction of the increase in assistance that local residents will need in the next year. Last year the group made more than $8 million so setting the goal at this level is not unreasonable.