United Way is the largest funder of social service programs outside of government. Across Canada more than 5 thousand communities are served by United Way.
United Way Waterloo Region Communities is focused on "changing the power of poverty" Poverty has too much power over 1 in 10 people across our region. That's more than 50 thousand people---our neighbours, friends and co workers.
Through donations we work across a variety of platforms and sit at numerous tables as we build a network of support across the cities of Cambridge, Kitchener, Waterloo and the townships of North Dumfries, Wilmot, Wellesley and Woolwich. Because of our expansive view we are uniquely positioned to work as an agent of change.
We provide leadership and support to the non-profit sector and bring various partners across all sectors together to find long-term solutions to the issues that affect us most. Through this coordinated approach, we are able to look for gaps and opportunities in services and invest in a combination of programs that will have the greatest impact in the most effective way. We’ve done the research, listened to the community, and used this information to guide our investments with partner agencies.
United Way-funded programs and services meet immediate needs, such as food, clothing and shelter, but also help with long-term needs through supports like life skills development and counseling.