Gareth and Janice Wright* loved raising their three young kids in the quiet Ancaster neighbourhood where they’d both grown up. Life was steady, filled with familiar routines—until Gareth lost his job. The timing couldn’t have been worse, with the rising cost of living already stretching their budget. Suddenly, they were facing an uncertain future, unsure how they’d keep their family afloat.
For years, Gareth and Janice had been donors to a United Way-supported agency helping families in need. They never imagined they’d one day need that same support, but as their savings dwindled, they found themselves turning to the agency for help to feed their family.
For six months, the Wrights relied on the agency’s food bank, receiving groceries and vouchers to get by.
The agency even provided gifts and toys for their kids during the holidays—a small but powerful reminder that they weren’t alone and their community was standing with them.
Eventually, with the agency’s help, Gareth connected with an employment counselor and found a new job. They could finally breathe again, knowing they were back on their feet.
But the story didn’t end there! The Wrights never forgot the lifeline they received when they needed it most. Once they were back on stable ground, they made a generous donation to United Way. Gareth and Janice said they wanted to “pay it forward,” ensuring that other families in need would have the same kind of support when times got tough. Their journey had come full circle—from givers, to receivers, and back to givers again—strengthening the very community they’d always called home.
The Power of Giving Back
Stories like the Wright family highlight the powerful impact of community support. But they also show that the need for help is growing. The rising costs of food, housing, and utilities, combined with economic uncertainty, have put enormous strain on many individuals and families. More and more people are finding themselves in similar situations, often for the first time, needing assistance to meet basic needs. And poverty doesn’t exist in isolation. It often comes hand-in-hand with other social issues—homelessness, mental health struggles, and isolation—that make it even harder to break free.
At United Way Halton & Hamilton, we believe in the power of our community to uplift each other. We see it daily in the dedication of our partners, donors, and volunteers, all working to create a network of support for those who need it most.
Double the Impact on Giving Tuesday
That’s why this Giving Tuesday, we’re calling on our community to come together in a big way. Thanks to the generous support of Leggat Auto Group, every donation made to United Way Halton & Hamilton on December 3rd will be matched dollar-for-dollar, up to $5,000. But the opportunity doesn’t stop there. Through our Local Love Community Match, the impact of every dollar donated will be magnified even further, creating a ripple effect of support for local families.
This double match means that your generosity goes even further. With every contribution, we can make strides in addressing poverty, hunger, isolation, and mental health issues in Halton and Hamilton. Just imagine the difference we can make together, helping more families like the Wrights get back on their feet and rebuild their lives.
Be Part of the Change
This Giving Tuesday, we have the chance to make a significant impact, transforming compassion into action.
Imagine what we can accomplish when we stand united. When you donate on December 3rd, you’re not only helping families in need—you’re investing in a stronger future for all of us. To join this movement and make a difference, simply visit uwhh.ca and donate on Giving Tuesday.
Together, let’s make this season one of hope, resilience, and support for all. Thank you for considering United Way Halton & Hamilton on Giving Tuesday. Every gift counts, and every act of generosity brings us closer to building a community where everyone can thrive.
Sincerely,
Brad Park
President and CEO
United Way Halton & Hamilton
*Names have been changed to safeguard privacy.
