Urgent Needs Fund
By issuing modest, one-time grants to households, the Urgent Needs Fund helps when no existing services could meet the needs of Simcoe Muskoka residents. Whether that be access to transportation, clothes for a job interview, groceries for a family relying on a food bank, covering medical expenses for a senior on a fixed income or any number of the many unique needs the Urgent Needs Fund has been used for, we have been there for our most vulnerable when we have been needed most.
After assisting almost 1,500 individuals through the Urgent Needs Fund pilot project, the results were clear – these small grants were not just meeting those immediate needs, they were also providing hope and dignity to the recipients. Many were also referred on to other services and programs in Simcoe Muskoka to ensure that they didn’t fall through the cracks.
After the successful pilot program, the Urgent Needs Fund was relaunched in January 2022.
1,425
Individuals Assisted
*Since October 2019. Updated bi-weekly.
Words of Hope form UNF Recipients
“I am a widow and I have zero food in the house. My husband was ill and passed away leaving not much money. These funds were given to me in the most gracious manner. I felt treated like a real person which was better than receiving the actual funds themselves.”
“The funds did help me out so much. It relieved my stress so much. You guys have been so welcoming and don’t make us feel like we are getting a handout – so we are not embarrassed to ask for help.”
“It was difficult to make the call and you made it comfortable and easy.”
“I am a single mom with two kids. We were desperate for winter clothing for my kids and myself. I don’t have a vehicle, so we do a lot of walking and the kids take a school bus. We need to stay warm and dry… The funds came at a perfect time for us. We are now warm for the winter.”
“We would not have eaten if we hadn’t received these funds.”
About the Urgent Needs Fund
How to Help
If you want to be there for the most vulnerable in Simcoe Muskoka, there are several ways you can support the Urgent Needs Fund:
Donate: Support the UNF by donating.
Become a Sponsor: UNF sponsorship opportunities are available for advertising with a purpose.
Spread the Word: Let other organizations, companies and community tables know about the UNF.
Provide a Grant: If your organization or one you know of can provide a grant, let us know.
How to Apply
If you would like to apply for the Urgent Needs Fund, simply call and speak with a representative.
If you live in Simcoe call 211 Community Connections by dialing 2-1-1 on your phone.
If you live in Muskoka call the District of Muskoka at 705-645-2412 or toll free 1-800-461-4215 and enter extension 4363.
Regional Agency Leads
South Simcoe
Barrie Area Native Advisory Circle
Barrie and Area, Orillia and Area, North Simcoe and South Georgian Bay
Catholic Family Services Simcoe County
Orillia and Area & Barrie and Area
Chigamik Community Health Centre
North Simcoe
South Georgian Bay Community Health Centre
South Georgian Bay
District Municipality of Muskoka
Muskoka
South Simcoe: Township of Adjala-Tosorontio Township, Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury, Township of Essa, Town of New Tecumseth
Barrie + Area: City of Barrie, Town of Innisfil, Township of Springwater
South Georgian Bay: Town of Collingwood, Township of Clearview, Town of Wasaga Beach, Town of Blue Mountains
North Simcoe: Town of Midland, Town of Penetanguishene, Township of Tay, Township of Tiny
Orillia + Area: City of Orillia, Township of Oro-Medonte, Township of Ramara, Township of Severn
Muskoka: Town of Bracebridge, Township of Georgian Bay, Town of Gravenhurst, Town of Huntsville, Lake of Bays, Township of Muskoka Lakes