A community is only as strong as the sum of its parts. But it too many places in Durham Region, residents find it find it difficult to access the essential services and supports they need to succeed. These barriers are often amplified for vulnerable individuals—including seniors, people living with disabilities, and newcomers—and can lead to challenges like social exclusion and mental illness.
Connection to Supports
UNDERSTANDING THE ISSUES
The foundation for a strong community starts with investing in services and supports for people and families in need.
1 in 5 people will experience a mental illness in their lifetime. Healthcare practitioners stress that it is as important to take care of your mental well-being, as it is your physical well-being.
Whatever the challenge you may be facing, everyone needs a shoulder to lean on.
UNITE WAY'S IMPACT
Last year, United Way funding allowed for 12,500 crisis line calls and texts to be answered by trained volunteers.
The United Way also maintains, Information Durham, a database of community resources and services in Durham Region. This includes essential services (e.g. food banks, medical centres, etc.) as well as local clubs and societies.
Not sure what you're looking for? Feel free to give us a call, and we'll be happy to direct you to where you need to go.
YOUR SUPPORT MATTERS
- $104 allows one COPE client to attend a weekly support group, where they will be able to receive the support they need to deal with emotional and/or mental health concerns
- $260 provides 10 people with 10 weeks of guidance on how to support a family member or friend struggling with mental health issues.
Neighbourhood and Community Engagement
UNDERSTANDING THE ISSUES
Having a sense of belonging is a basic human need, just like food and shelter.
The world is becoming increasingly connected through new technology and social media, yet many remain isolated. Nearly 1 in 3 Canadians do not feel a strong sense of belonging in their local communities.
Many of our neighbours may also face specific social barriers related to age, physical ability, or language fluency. For instance, 1 in 5 Canadian seniors report that they feel lonely.
YOUR SUPPORT MATTERS.
Through our partner organizations, the United Way helps fund accessible activities such as after-school programs, language classes, seniors' clubs, and more.
The United Way also maintains a database of current volunteer opportunities in Durham Region.
Volunteering, neighbours helping neighbours, is the cornerstone of a strong community. At the same time, it can also be great way to develop professional skills - for instance, as a board member.
Whether you've lived in Durham Region your whole life, or are brand new - everyone has value to add as a volunteer. How will you give back to our community?
Personal Well-being & Safety
UNDERSTANDING THE ISSUES
We often consider our homes to be safe spaces, but for individuals experiencing abuse or those with limited mobility - being at home is a daily struggle.
In a moment's notice, anyone can become in need of additional support.
YOUR SUPPORT MATTERS.
Everyone in our community deserves to life safely and in good health. Thanks to your support:
- 9,500 seniors connected with programs that allowed them to remain living independently and with dignity.
- 2,000 women and children received support from programs such as emergency shelters, counselling, and outreach.
Ever wonder about the people behind the numbers? Meet Elsie.
For almost two decades, Elsie volunteered in her community. After suffering a fall, she found herself in need of the very support she had been providing for so many.
Meals-on Wheels, a United Way funded program, delivers a daily nutritional meal, checks on her well-being, and offers a social visit. For Elsie, it's a road back to the community she loves.
You can read Elsie's full story here here.