United Way Greater Toronto (UWGT) has set a goal of raising more than $110 million to support the hundreds of thousands of people in Peel, Toronto and York Region grappling with the challenges posed by the high cost of living and persistent issue of poverty.
UWGT has worked together with labour and the public, private and non-profit sectors in the fight against poverty throughout its 67-year history. As the largest funder of social services in the Greater Toronto Area outside of government, the organization says the scale of need seen this year is staggering and requires solutions that push beyond the status quo.
“We must tackle poverty at its roots, and we are setting an ambitious fundraising target this year to match a growing need,” said Daniele Zanotti, president and CEO of United Way Greater Toronto, in a news release. “We continue to work with an expansive network of agencies supporting people across Peel, Toronto and York Region, but we must also continue to find long-term solutions to help people living in poverty: affordable housing, good jobs, a life free from racism and discrimination. And we must do it together, because meaningful solutions require us to work in a united way.”
This year’s fundraising campaign chair, David Leonard, CEO, McCarthy Tétrault LLP, shared why he believes in United Way: “This campaign is about investing in our neighbours and neighbourhoods. By supporting United Way Greater Toronto, we’re not only helping those in need today, but we’re also sowing the seeds for a stronger, more resilient community for everyone. I’m proud to be part of this movement dedicated to making a meaningful impact on the lives of those in our community.”
Last year, UWGT helped more than two million residents, bolstering a safety net of over 300 community agencies in Peel, Toronto and York Region that support individuals and families with a range of needs — from food security to mental health to housing stability and more.
UWGT bridges this network of care with groundbreaking research, cross-sectoral partnerships, local advocacy, and strategic initiatives aimed at building a more equitable region and lasting solutions to the GTA’s greatest challenges.
To donate to United Way Greater Toronto, click here.
