Niagara Region, November 2024 – United Way Niagara is proud to recognize a $60,000 corporate gift
from General Motors (GM) Canada, part of a broader philanthropic commitment to support multiple
charities across the Niagara region. Through GM’s Plant City Grant Program, five local organizations have
received a total of $100,000 in funding to advance initiatives and ensure brighter futures for so many in
Niagara.
This vital support comes at a critical time as Niagara communities face increasingly complex challenges.
With GM Canada’s help, United Way Niagara and four other incredible community organizations can
continue their work to uplift and empower the most vulnerable members of the community. The total
contributions include:
• $5,000 to Distress Centre Niagara
• $10,000 to Niagara Nutrition Partners
• $10,000 to Gillian’s Place
• $15,000 to Habitat for Humanity Niagara
• $60,000 to United Way Niagara
"Supporting these five charities reflects our commitment to building a stronger community and
a brighter future. We’re proud to give back, helping create opportunities, uplift neighbors, and
drive positive change beyond our plant walls." - Tara Wasik, Plant Director
Through their strategic partnerships, GM Canada continually demonstrates its commitment to driving
social progress and ensuring that the communities they operate in thrive. “These funds will allow us to
continue supporting families in need, tackling food insecurity, improving housing stability, and
empowering those affected by violence and hardship,” said Frances Hallworth, CEO of United Way
Niagara. “We are deeply grateful for GM’s loyal support, which enables us to push forward with long-
term, impactful change.”
The combined contributions from GM Canada to local Niagara charities reinforce the importance of
corporate responsibility in building strong, resilient communities.
“This donation has created more than just full plates – it’s created full hearts and focused minds,” said
Jessica Stephenson, Program Manager at Niagara Nutrition Partners.” Thanks to General Motors, our
students come to school ready to learn, knowing they are cared for. A simple breakfast may seem small,
but for our kids, it’s the difference between a distracted morning and a day of possibilities.”
“The generosity of General Motors Plant City Grant program really makes a difference in helping
Habitat for Humanity Niagara achieve its goals,” said Mark Carl, CEO of Habitat for Humanity Niagara.
“These funds will support the construction of a multi-residential six townhouse build in Welland next
year, serving the growing demand for affordable housing in our region. The impact of a larger scale
build yields a higher impact on families and our community, helping more families build strength,
stability and independence through affordable homeownership.”
“Gillian’s Place extends our heartfelt thanks to General Motors for their continued support of our life-
changing and lifesaving work. As intimate partner violence has been declared an epidemic in Niagara,
there has never been a greater need for collective attention and generosity to ensure survivors have
the support they need and deserve”. Graeme Dargavel, Director of Development & Communications.
“Distress Centre Niagara is grateful to General Motors for their very generous donation to our 24-hour
crisis program. The funding will assist us in recruiting additional responders and providing advanced
training to address the intensified emotional needs of our community members. Distress Centre callers,
volunteers, board and staff are thankful!” – Stacy Terry, Executive Director of Distress Centre Niagara