From Poverty to Possibility

Promoting Financial Security and Independence

Breaking the Cycle of Poverty

Poverty is a complex issue. Once in the cycle of poverty, it is extremely difficult for individuals and families to overcome. United Way invests in numerous high quality, high impact programs to support individuals to gain access to the basic needs and other resources to help them stabilize. Supports also provide the opportunity to acquire the knowledge and tools to maximize income and increase savings for long-term stability.

How We’re Changing Lives

We invest in programs that provide food provision supports, promote food literacy, provide transitional supports, offer training in job readiness and financial literacy and overcome obstacles to employment.

Issue

43% of Canadians feel financially worse off than they did in the previous year.

In Ontario, approximately 22% of jobs could be characterized as precarious work.

Exposure to severe food insecurity negatively impacts children’s well-being, manifesting in greater risks for conditions like asthma, depression, and suicidal ideation.

Impact

People experienced increased financial security.

3000

People work towards meaningful employment.

3000

People have increased food security.

3000

Changing lives. Together.

Katie’s Story

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SGmSJp_AaaY As a young child, I endured both physical and sexual abuse that scarred me deeply. By the time I was a teenager, I was trapped in a cycle of...

Fred’s Story

“Losing my house and my kids was probably the hardest thing. I lost everything. Following an arrest, I realized I was an addict and needed help. At the time, every...

Alex’s Story

“I never really had the greatest relationship with my parents and it kind of came to a head a couple of years ago where I just couldn’t live in the...

Chad & Travis’s Story

“I was raised in a small village and when I moved to the big city, you’d rarely find a soul who was willing to give a hand. That’s what makes...

Michele’s Story

“I learned many skills through volunteering, it helps me in networking and keeps my brain active. For me, it’s been nothing but beneficial. I recommend it! I started using hard...

Kathy’s Story

“I am known around the community centre as ‘grandma.’ Everyone calls me that, even other seniors, and I love it. It started with my grandkids calling me grandma and then...

Are you or someone you know needing support?

Reach out by dialing 211—a free, confidential, 24/7 service available nationwide in Canada. Accessible in over 150 languages via phone, web, and text, 211 connects individuals to the appropriate information and services. Every day, this helpline offers a lifeline to care and resources for those in vulnerable circumstances, including seniors, newcomers, Indigenous communities, and beyond.