St. Clair College’s United Way Campaign: A Week of Fun with a Serious Impact
St. Clair College is going all-in for the United Way Centraide Windsor-Essex Chatham-Kent, hosting a week-long fundraising campaign from February 9th to 13th, 2026. The initiative spans all three campuses – Windsor, Downtown, and Chatham – and promises a blend of lighthearted events and a powerful message of community support.
Pieing Professors and Chili Cook-offs: Engaging Students for a Cause
The campaign isn’t relying on simple donation boxes. Students have the chance to “pie” their professors at both the Windsor and Chatham campuses on Tuesday, February 10th and Wednesday, February 11th respectively. The Chatham campus will also host a Chili Cook-off on Wednesday, February 11th. The Downtown campus will feature a cookie bake sale on Tuesday, February 10th, with $1 from each cookie going directly to the United Way, and a Bowl of Chili sale on Thursday, February 12th, also donating $1 per cup.
Donation Booth Locations and Times
For those preferring a more traditional approach, donation tables will be available at the following locations:
- Main Windsor Campus: February 9th – 13th, 11 AM – 2 PM, main hallway outside the cafeteria
- Downtown Campus: February 10th & 12th, 11 AM – 2 PM, SCCCA main lobby
- Chatham Campus: February 9th, 11th & 13th, 11 AM – 2 PM, main lobby
Beyond the Fun: The Real Impact of the United Way Partnership
This isn’t just about fun and games. The funds raised directly support vital community programs. Currently, 66 students are enrolled in the “On Track on Campus” program at St. Clair College, with 26 being first-year students. The program has already helped 38 students graduate.
Supporting Food Security with the School Lunch Pilot
A key initiative supported by the United Way and St. Clair College is the School Lunch Pilot, providing free, nutritious meals to students in West Windsor schools. This program addresses food insecurity and aims to improve student focus and well-being. This year alone, the partnership has facilitated the delivery of 47,000 school lunches.
The Growing Trend of Campus-Community Partnerships
St. Clair College’s campaign exemplifies a growing trend: colleges and universities actively partnering with local organizations to address community needs. This model benefits both students and the wider community. Students gain valuable experience in fundraising, event planning, and community engagement, while local organizations receive crucial financial and volunteer support.
This type of collaboration is increasingly seen as essential for institutions of higher learning, moving beyond traditional academic roles to become active participants in local problem-solving.
FAQ
Q: What does the United Way do in Windsor-Essex and Chatham-Kent?
A: The United Way supports a wide range of programs focused on poverty reduction, education, and community health.
Q: How can I donate if I can’t attend the events?
A: Details on alternative donation methods will be available at the donation booths and potentially through St. Clair College’s website.
Q: What is the “On Track on Campus” program?
A: It’s a program designed to support students facing financial challenges, helping them stay in school and succeed.
Q: How many school lunches have been delivered this year?
A: 47,000 school lunches have been delivered this year.
Did you know? The School Lunch Pilot program directly addresses a critical need in the community, ensuring children have access to nutritious meals and a better chance to succeed in school.
Pro Tip: Check St. Clair College’s social media channels for updates on event times and fundraising totals throughout the week!
Support St. Clair College and the United Way in making a difference. Consider donating during the campaign and learn more about the United Way’s initiatives at https://www.unitedwayweck.ca/.
