Together, we’ve connected thousands of people in Niagara to essential local resources, from food programs to mental health and housing support. These achievements – made possible by the tireless work of our network of funded agency partners and fuelled by the dedication of our donors and volunteers – deserve celebration!

“The best thing that happened after finding safe housing, was getting back to school.”

With your support United Way Niagara invests in a diverse range of social service programs across Niagara, serving thousands of individuals and families every year. One of the main areas of focus for United Way is equipping youth with the tools they need to succeed. It gives us great joy when we hear from youth who have improved their situations and we thought you would like to hear it too.

This note was sent to us by our friends at Community Care of St. Catharines & Thorold, from a youth accessing the Youth Support Worker Program:

“I was referred to the program through Community Care’s Housing Help. I was connected with a Youth Support Worker and right away they helped me get set up to receive social assistance so I could afford to live. When I first met my support worker, I was homeless and sleeping on another client’s couch. My life was spiraling out of control after a huge family breakdown beyond my control. They got me housed immediately and into a much safer environment.

After experiencing what its like to be homeless, safety was, and is, so important to me. The best thing that happened after finding safe housing, was getting back to school. My support worker was there to help me every step of the way. They got me registered, helped me with homework questions and even helped me make a resume so I can apply for a job. It’s because of them that I was able to complete grade 12. I am so grateful for the ongoing support of a trusted adult I can turn to – they have taught me how to support myself and move forward.”

“I am so grateful for the ongoing support of a trusted adult I can turn to – they have taught me how to support myself and move forward.”

United Way is proud to invest in the Youth Support Worker Program, providing essential services and supports to at-risk youth. The program focuses on a wide range of supports including housing searches, crisis intervention, financial literacy, trusteeship, employment supports and helping youth stay in, or return to school.

Last year, with support from donors like you, 2,456 vital connections were made for at-risk youth in Niagara through this program. Thank you!