The Sarnia-Lambton United Way has set a 2023 campaign goal of $1.4 million.

That’s despite the fact the need for programs in the community is over $1.6 million according to the 2023 United Way Campaign Chair Vicky Ducharme.

Ducharme says the board thought long and hard about setting the goal.

“On the one hand, the board wanted to be realistic given the current economic environment with high-interest rates, higher than ideal inflation rates, and a community still feeling some lingering effects of the pandemic,” Ducharme says in a news release.

“On the other hand, we know the needs are at that $1.6 Million level or higher. Ultimately, we decided on a $1.4 Million goal, but to take the opportunity to inform the community that the need is much higher.

“I am hopeful we will not only reach the goal, but we will work as hard as we can surpass it, knowing that every dollar over the goal raised this year will be used to invest in local programs and services.”

Next up for the United Way is the Annual Sarnia Sting Black and White inter-squad game set to take place on Aug. 31. It’s considered the unofficial kick off to the campaign.

The campaign begins officially Sept. 19 with the annual Day of Caring however $275,000 has already been raised.

The United Way will also begin its direct mail campaign in the next few days sending thousands of letters throughout the campaign.

This is the first time in a decade the campaign target is under $1.5 million.

The United Way raised $1.4 million last year.