United Way SDG and Pommier Jewellers team up to support Akwesasne

Since 2004, the United Way of S.D.& G. (UWC SDG) has been committed to funding a range of health and social services for residents of its region. It was first incorporated in 1964 as the Cornwall Community Chest Association, then renamed United Way Cornwall and District in 1975 and became United Way Stormont, Dundas & Glengarry on June 7, 2004.

United Way's organizational mission is to improve lives and build community. United Way/Centraide SDG (UWSDG) has always considered Akwesasne as part of its region. As part of United Way fundraising efforts, Andre Pommier of Pommier Jewellers, who has a long history with UWSDG, designed an 'Christmas Angel' ornament for the holiday season. The angel ornament is sold at Pommier Jewellers and all proceeds of this sale is donated directly to United Way.

Pommier requested to include Akwesasne in their fundraising efforts and to place the "Akwesasne" on any coverage areas they serve. United Way wholeheartedly agreed, however advertising and promotional materials will not include "Akwesasne" in this year's literature.

Pommier decided to include "Akwesasne" on the United Ways' annual 2020 Christmas Angel which they sell each year to raise money. This is Pommier Jewellers' 19th year of selling UWSDG Christmas Angel ornaments.

This year, money received from local fundraising and the federal government investment through New Horizons for Seniors and the Emergency Community Fund, UWSDG was able to invest over $30,000 directly into the community to the following projects: Akwesasne Garden Initiatives for families and Akwesasne Garden Initiative for elders at Iakhihsohtha and Tsiionkwanonhso:te. Included in this donation were games/activities and equipment for safe food handling during a crisis at both facilities. UWSDG also donated PPE for AMBE to equip schools, daycares and buses for a safe re-opening.

In addition, UWSDG collaborated with Akwesasne to ensure refurbished tablets were donated to elder care facilities to stay connected with family members and loved ones during the 'lock-down'. They also distributed water bottles with mental health resource information on them to AMBE students.

Andre Pommier stated, "The ornament's design includes Akwesasne – I've always considered Akwesasne as part of our family, our community. It's been our goal to include Akwesasne in our long-range plans and this year's efforts are just a beginning".

He added, "The bridge between Cornwall and Akwesasne has literally and figuratively been strengthened."

Anyone wanting to purchase a UWSDG Christmas Angel ornament can contact Pommier Jewellers and place an order. In keeping with 'safe distancing' at door delivery is available.