York Region staff and police have announced a fundraising goal of $380,000 in support of the United Way’s 2011 staff campaign.

“York Region employees continue to demonstrate their commitment to giving back to our community,” said York Chairman and CEO Bill Fisch. “From 2001 to 2006, York Region’s low-income population increased 55 per cent. And as our population continues to age and grow, there will be many more at risk. This ambitious goal recognizes we will continue to work with the United Way to tackle these issues.”

The goal was announced during a United Way kick-off ceremony and barbecue luncheon.

Last year, the Region surpassed its campaign goal and raised $320,000. Since 1999, the Region has raised more than $1.6 million for the United Way.

“It is amazing to see the positive impact the United Way has in improving the lives of some of our most vulnerable citizens,” said York Regional Police Deputy Chief Thomas Carrique, campaign co-chair along with Erin Mahoney, the Region’s commissioner of Environmental Services. “Our joint campaign highlights the importance of the United Way and its member agencies in providing important services to families and individuals across York Region.”

As part of the staff campaign, Region and police staff will hold a three-onthree hockey tournament Oct. 28.

Each year, the United Way of York Region assists one in three York residents overcome difficulties through the support of more than 40 agencies and close to 100 community programs.

“Thanks to this generous support from York Region and York Regional Police, people across the Region can access the services they need,” said United Way of York Region CEO Daniele Zanotti. “A teen with learning disabilities in Richmond Hill can attend an after school-program and a mother and her children in East Gwillimbury can escape domestic abuse.”

United Way unveiled its campaign goal of $8.6 million for 2011 at the annual Toromont CAT Dragon Boat Festival at Seneca College’s King campus in August.