WICS fundraising campaign launched on a high note

With green and white balloons held high, elected officials, community group representatives, corporate partners and West Island residents hit the streets at the Walk for Community Shares (WICS) on Sunday, despite uncertain weather. The six-kilometre walk through West Island streets officially launched West Island Community Shares’ 11th annual fundraising campaign.

WICS provides funding to 29 community groups who deliver essential services to West Islanders in need. Last year, about $630,000 was raised and distributed among these groups. The 2008-2009 campaign goal has been boosted to $675,000 to help protect or expand the vital services they offer West Islanders.

“I’m very excited to announce that, thanks to generous individuals and corporate donors from the West Island, we are more than half-way there,” said WICS executive director Caroline Tison.

“Friends for Mental Health is grateful for the funding it has received from Community Shares since 2004,” said Lucie Discepola, executive director of Friends for Mental Health, one of the groups supported by WICS. “This crucial support means that we can provide better and more comprehensive services to families and friends who are coping with the mental illness of a loved one.”

The current campaign will run until March 2009. For more information, check www.communityshares.ca or call 514-695-8694.