United Way in Saskatoon making cuts to programs, staff due to drop in donations

SASKATOON – The United Way in Saskatoon is cutting staff and reducing funding to some programs to tackle a $1-million shortfall.

The charity says donations from individuals and corporations were lower than expected in 2017 due to the economic downturn.

United Way says its campaign revenue has declined 35 per cent over the last three years, but financial reserves and savings helped offset the shortfalls.

The group, which raised just over $6 million in 2015, is projected to raise $3.9 million this year.

CEO Shaun Dyer says the United Way will become more creative to deal with the drop in donations.

He says the Collaborative Funders program, which provides grants to community-based organizations, will be reduced by 50 per cent. (CTV Saskatoon)