The housing crisis, rise in mental health issues, skyrocketing cost of living… these complex issues in our communities are leaving both residents and social services overwhelmed.
The rates of poverty and homelessness continue to rise, and there’s so much work to be done. So where do we start?
We know that our communities’ problems aren’t a one-stop fix. We cannot fix one issue without looking at the entire picture.
When you donate to United Way, you are investing in a safety net of programs and services that address poverty, education, homelessness, mental health and more. United Way brings together caring partners to address the biggest challenges and empower individuals to live their best lives.
Let’s help more people get the support they need, when they need it, while finding sustainable solutions for the long-term.
When individuals and families thrive, our entire community thrives. Thanks to caring donors like you, positive change is taking place in the lives of those who need it most. Here are just a couple of stories from people who now have a brighter future:
Imagine being 18 and homeless, trying to navigate life’s challenges without a stable place to call home. Now imagine the added stress of pursuing a post-secondary education while facing such uncertainty. For Jay, a resilient youth from Northern Ontario, this was his reality.
After a challenging family situation left him without a home, Jay lived in a shelter, struggling to stay safe and maintain his mental health. The stress of homelessness made focusing on his education nearly impossible.
Thankfully, Jay found the support he desperately needed through United Way-funded mental health programs. These programs provided him with access to a psychiatrist and nurse practitioner—services that felt out of reach before.
“I always wanted to get therapy, but I didn’t have the money to do that,” Jay shared. “It can take over a year to see a psychiatrist, so having one easily accessible has been really beneficial.”
Youth like Jay often face significant barriers to accessing mental health care. In fact, only one in five youth in need of mental health services receives appropriate treatment as they transition to the adult health care system.
Through your support, United Way’s mental health programming ensures local youth have immediate access to free, inclusive, and safe mental health services. For Jay, this support has been life-changing, helping him regain stability and focus on his future.
Your contributions are creating brighter futures for youth like Jay by providing the resources and support they need to overcome challenges and thrive.
Starting school should be an exciting time for every child, but for families facing financial hardship, it can be filled with stress and uncertainty. In Ontario, 18.4% of children live in low-income households, making access to essential school items a challenge. United Way’s Ready For School program is making a difference!
Donna knows firsthand the difference this program can make. A single mom living in geared-to-income housing and working part-time, she often struggles to provide her children, David and Sarah, with what they need for school.
“For me, one of the biggest expenses is shoes,” Donna shared. “The kids each need two pairs—indoor and outdoor—and a few months later, I’m scrambling to find them winter boots.”
This year, Ready for School gave David something he had never experienced before: a choice. “This is the first time I got to start school with cool new shoes that fit,” David said with excitement. “I chose the red ones because they’re my favorite.”
Thanks to this program, David and Sarah didn’t just get shoes—they gained confidence, dignity, and a brighter start to their school year, while Donna found some much-needed relief.
Your support makes stories like Donna’s possible. By donating today, you’re ensuring local children have the tools they need to succeed in school and beyond. Together, we can continue creating brighter futures for every child in our community.
Daniel was recovering in the hospital when a kind neighbour signed him up for United Way's Keeping Seniors Warm program. For the first time in years, Daniel received new clothes:
"I was excited to come and shop! I got jogging pants, mitts, a pair of winter boots, and underwear. My life's been very difficult, so I am grateful to be alive and be eligible for these programs. Thank you!" he said.
Through this program, Daniel received not only essential items but also a confidence boost and a sense of security, connection, and care.
Stories like Daniel's show the profound impact of your contribution. Many seniors are at risk of isolation, which can lead to serious health issues. With your help, we can ensure they receive the care they need, whether it’s hot, healthy meals, essential winter clothing, or engaging activities to support their well-being.