Embrace the possibility.

We are facing significant challenges: many are one missed paycheque away from being unable to pay their rent, one in three households are experiencing food insecurity, and more and more people are feeling disconnected to their communities.

In the face of these challenging times, United Way Simcoe Muskoka is committed to building a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

We have committed $2.1 million in funding for collaborative projects over the next three years that bring together partners to address complex social issues such as food security, housing, and mental health.

We have directed $700,000 in funding specifically to address housing needs of Indigenous populations across rural and remote communities through our most recent Reaching Home call for proposals.

We are launching our Home Relief Bank as a proactive solution to prevent individuals and families from experiencing homelessness across Simcoe, Muskoka, and the Town of Blue Mountains.

When you support your United Way, you are committing to a brighter future for all.

Thank you for embracing the possibility.

Thank you for supporting your United Way.

Your United Way in Action: Creating Supportive Housing and Income Stability in Rural Simcoe County

Your United Way has committed to fundraising $280,957.50 to support Creating Supportive Housing and Income Stability in Rural Simcoe County over the next three years. This is one of seven community collaborative projects your United Way has committed $2.1 million to over the next three years to support our efforts to bring together community partners to address complex social issues across
Simcoe Muskoka.

The Issue 

The need for affordable and supportive housing in Simcoe County is growing. “What we’re seeing is the level of need is increasing, especially for those who are most vulnerable,” said Mina Fayez-Bahgat, County of Simcoe general manager of community and social services. In addition to the need for supportive, affordable housing, there is a significant need for skilled trades workers across Simcoe County. The retirement of 18% of the current labour force will increase the recruitment requirements for the industry to approximately 118,900 workers.

The Solution

The project provides pre-employment construction training for underrepresented groups, creating job opportunities and building housing units in rural Simcoe County.

• Provides over 20,000 hours of paid trades training and employment development for marginalized groups facing employment barriers.
• Creates job opportunities through paid training and future employment.
• Builds new affordable and supportive housing units in rural Simcoe County.

The People and Partners Behind United Way Simcoe Muskoka

United Way Simcoe Muskoka’s Real2Reel Documentary Film Festival has officially wrapped, and we couldn’t be more grateful for the support that made it all possible. This powerful event, which brought critical attention to societal issues such as poverty, substance use disorders, human trafficking, and social inclusion, was a success thanks to the incredible generosity of our sponsors, Enbridge and the RBC Foundation. Their dedication to creating positive change in our community was instrumental in the festival’s impact. We extend our heartfelt thanks to both sponsors for making this meaningful event a reality.

Employee Spotlight: Ann Kleiser, Home Relief Bank Project Coordinator

With over 20 years in the non-profit sector, Ann has worked to address issues like affordable housing, unemployment, and poverty. After moving from Toronto to Simcoe County, she now enjoys life in Oro-Medonte. Ann’s leadership and project design experience help her create effective solutions to systemic challenges. Welcome to the team Ann!