The utility’s long-standing support of the United Way continued with an employee-led campaign in 2021. The campaign included turkey raffles, a pancake breakfast, samosa sales, a 50/50 draw and a silent auction, among other crowd-pleasing events. More than $9,500 was raised for the United Way through the month-long campaign. As part of this year’s campaign, WNH employees also held an inter-departmental Food Drive to support the Food Bank of Waterloo Region. A total of 661 pounds of food were donated, which is enough for 846 healthy meals.
With the help of our customers, WNH donated a total of 4,500 meals to The Food Bank in 2021. In the fall, the utility donated six meals to The Food Bank for each customer that registered for eBilling during its campaign. The utility also ran a special Week of Giving eBilling campaign and donated 12 meals for each customer that signed up from November 29 until December 6.
WNH employees have also supported local families through the Christmas Family program. In 2021, we raised $1,000 to brighten the holiday season for two families.
WNH also supports local universities and colleges. In 2021, WNH donated $5,000 to Conestoga College’s Powerline Technician Program. This donation provides four students with scholarships of $1,250 each. In addition to providing financial support, WNH also donates equipment, including trucks and trailers that are scheduled to be replaced by newer models. Former WNH employees are also program coordinators, and current employees act as program advisors. WNH also supports the two universities in its service territory. WNH supports several programs at Wilfrid Laurier University, including its Business Program. The utility also provides assistance and guidance to the University of Waterloo’s Engineering Program, and sponsors the school’s Midnight Sun Solar Car Team.