Dear Friend,
Across the country, people are feeling the strain. A new United Way Centraide Financial Anxiety Survey by Léger found that 55% of people in Canada feel anxious about their personal finances. Nearly as many report physical stress symptoms when talking about money, and 42% say they could only cover basic expenses for less than one month if they lost their main source of income.
The sad truth is, we see that reality every day in the GTA. Families are doing everything they can, yet still struggle to afford food, rent and other necessities.
That’s why United Way Greater Toronto is here – to be a lifeline when times are tough. Through a network of 300+ community agencies, we connect people to the supports they need – from counselling that brings hope and healing, to housing and food programs that relieve household budgets, to employment services that create opportunity. These programs ease pressures today while helping people build a foundation for the future – for themselves, their families and communities.
United Way was built for tough times like these, and we’re stronger because of you. Together, we’ll keep fighting for a GTA where everyone can face the future with confidence. Any way we can.
With sincere appreciation for your support,
Alka Graham
Director, Donor Experience
United Way Greater Toronto
Your support in action
Standing with African Asylum seekers
The headlines from the summer of 2023 may have faded, but the crisis for African asylum seekers in the GTA hasn’t. United Way continues to be there, funding critical programs and pushing for systemic change. This summer, we released Understanding the Experiences of African Asylum Seekers in Peel, York and Toronto — a report developed with local partners that shares first-hand accounts from hundreds of African asylum seekers on the barriers they faced to housing, employment and social supports. The report calls for coordinated action — from increased investment to policy change — and the continued need to fight anti-Black racism.
Helping a father find housing and a healthy future
When Boafo was diagnosed with prostate cancer, he didn’t know where to turn. At African Community Services of Peel, a United Way–funded agency, he found connection, understanding and support. The agency helped Boafo schedule medical appointments, make social connections, find healthy food and secure safe housing for him and his daughters. Today, he’s paying it forward by mentoring youth through another one of the agency’s programs. With you, we’ll keep funding essential programs that connect people to the support they need, ensuring no one has to face a crisis alone.
Supporting youth in Jane-Finch to challenge stereotypes
At Jane Finch Centre’s United Way-funded program The Spot, youth are challenging stereotypes and reclaiming their community’s story through the Write Us Off campaign. The community-driven initiative invites businesses and individuals to “write off” Jane-Finch in a positive way — by taking part in anti-bias training programs developed by local youth leaders and helping to support vital community programs related to mental health services and youth violence prevention. Write Us Off empowers young people to lead change and spotlight the vibrancy, resilience and potential of their neighbourhood.
IN COMMUNITY, WITH COMMUNITY
Join us for a free online lunch-hour panel about food insecurity in the GTA, what it takes to make food justice a reality and how your support is fuelling this work. Register now for Diving Deeper: Let’s Talk Food Security on Nov. 19.
Ready to celebrate 45 years of United Way ClimbUP? Participants will climb the 1,776 steps of Canada’s tallest building on Nov. 15 & 16 to help build stronger communities and fight poverty. It’s 65% sold out so register now to climb!
What’s the real state of Toronto today? On Sept. 16, our President & CEO Heather McDonald joined the Empire Club of Canada’s panel on Toronto’s 2025 City Report Card to share United Way’s perspective on the challenges and solutions shaping our city’s future. Watch the conversation.
Building community takes community.
With your support, we will build a GTA where everyone has what they need to thrive. Any way we can.
Learn more about our work. Subscribe to our newsletter to receive regular updates about how your local love is making a difference across the GTA.