January 17, 2025 (Toronto, ON) – United Way Greater Toronto (UWGT) is proud to announce the total allocation of $71 million over the next three years in Community Program Grants (CPGs), supporting over 250 programs and services across Peel, Toronto, and York Region.
At a time when child poverty rates have risen eight per cent with over 800,000 families experiencing poverty in the GTA, these investments in housing, homelessness, inclusive employment, and more, like in mental health and food security, will strengthen a network of services while fighting the root causes of poverty, offering families across our region a better chance at safety and stability.
This round of funding, which will commence on April 1, 2025, and be delivered through three-year contracts, includes nine new programs, and will also continue to ensure that people can count on consistent, reliable support when they need it most. Multi-year funding is essential because it gives organizations the stability to plan ahead and deliver services that make a real difference— keeping housing stable, jobs within reach, and vital supports in place to help individuals and families move forward in their lives.
These investments reflect UWGT’s commitment to reconciliation and equity, ensuring that 27 per cent of funded programs are led by or focused on Indigenous, Black, and structurally disadvantaged groups. By prioritizing underserved areas in Peel, Toronto and York Region this funding helps people and families access the support they need, right where they live.
“Rising costs, unstable housing, and barriers to good jobs are just some of the challenges people in our communities are facing every day,” said Nation Cheong, Vice President of Community Impact and Mobilization at United Way Greater Toronto. United Way is ensuring individuals and families have access to the support they need —whether it’s finding secure housing, building new skills, or accessing culturally responsive care. Together with our partners, we’re working toward a future where everyone has the chance to build a better life.”
Among the many impactful programs receiving funding, UWGT is proud to support Wigwamen Incorporated’s Nishaabeaadzowin (Native Way of Life) Program, a culturally grounded initiative by Ontario’s largest urban Indigenous housing provider. At a time when many Indigenous communities in the GTA face significant barriers to stable housing and well-being, this program offers holistic support and monthly ceremonies led by Elders to promote healing, engagement, and housing stability for clients at risk of homelessness. By blending cultural practices with essential services, Wigwamen is fostering greater connection and support within the community through the prevention of homelessness.
Additional highlights include:
- New programs addressing housing and homelessness: Brampton Multicultural Community Centre’s H.O.M.E. program will support at-risk youth transitioning to stable housing in Peel, while Restoration and Empowerment for Social Transition expands culturally relevant housing support for Black and racialized youth.
- Inclusive employment initiatives: Blue Door’s Construct program and ACCES Employment’s Hire Direct are equipping participants with the skills, certifications, and connections needed for meaningful, long-term careers. These programs provide pathways to employment but also allow participants to achieve financial stability—ensuring they have the resources to support themselves and their families while building brighter futures.
- Youth-focused support: The Weston Frontlines Centre’s Property Management Future Education and Employment Track (F.E.E.T.) program will help train 90 youth over three years in property management skills. Combining classroom learning with internships, the program offers young people a pathway to stable, well-paying careers while addressing barriers to employment in underserved areas in Northwest Toronto.
The CPGs funding is a cornerstone of United Way’s strategy to create a GTA united by opportunity and support. At a time when people are facing complex challenges like rising costs, housing instability, and barriers to employment, these investments serve as vital lifelines—providing support where it is needed most. By working alongside frontline partners, United Way Greater Toronto is committed to tackling poverty any way we can to ensure that individuals and families have access to the resources they need to build stronger, more stable lives and that no one is left behind.
For all media inquiries, please reach out to:
Meetu Madahar
Manager, Communications
United Way Greater Toronto
(416) 817-4668
mmadahar@uwgt.org
About United Way: As the largest non-government funder of community services in the GTA, United Way Greater Toronto reinforces a crucial community safety net to support people living in poverty. United Way’s network of agencies and initiatives in neighbourhoods across Peel, Toronto and York Region works to ensure that everyone has access to the programs and services they need to thrive. Mobilizing community support, United Way’s work is rooted in ground-breaking research, strategic leadership, local advocacy and cross-sectoral partnerships committed to building a more equitable region and lasting solutions to the GTA’s greatest challenges.