Focus Areas

United Way Northumberland has three focus areas through which we invest, deliver programs and advocate for issues in our community. These were created to address some of the greatest needs in communities across Northumberland County.

Poverty

Moving people from poverty to possibility.

Kids

Helping kids be all they can be.

Community

Building strong communities.

Poverty

Poverty is complex, and those living in low-income situations face many social and health barriers including housing, employment, transportation, and more. The COVID-19 pandemic has intensified these barriers.

That is why, we support organizations that help people to find shelter and affordable housing, as well as address food security and other basic essentials, including Transition House Emergency Shelter, The Help Centre, and The Salvation Army. We also run two poverty-focused programs, Northumberland Eats and Period Promise, as well as advocate for poverty-related issues.

Here’s how our recent work has helped these living in low-income and poverty:

Clients per month received assistance with rental and Rent-Geared-to-Income applications through The Help Centre.

Individuals accessed a safe and warm place to sleep at Transition House Emergency Shelter.

Students regularly accessed the student nutrition program in local schools through Northumberland Food for Thought.

In Northumberland Eats food vouchers were distributed last year to provide individual and families with healthy meals and groceries.

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Kids

Research shows that the early years of life are some of the most important and informative years in human development. That is why United Way prioritizes children’s funding to guide children and youth down a health path as they grow and transition into adulthood.

Successful children are the future of our community.

To support youth in our community, we fund programs and local organizations including the Youth Wellness Hub, Trent Hills Pride, and invested in school nutrition programs providing infrastructure to 38 schools across Northumberland County, as well as host our annual Backpacks for Kids program each August.

Here’s how these investments have helped children and families:

Children were engaged in Big Brothers Big Sisters mentorship programs, contributing to improvements in their mental health, self-esteem, and problem-solving skills.

Parents and caregivers attended 34 sessions of Rebound’s Triple P – Positive Parenting Program.

Students returned to school ready to learn through the Backpacks for Kids program.

Community

We envision a community where everyone can access the information and resources, they need to build a stronger, more vibrant Northumberland County.

We help to build stronger communities by investing in social service providers including MHEART, Salvation Army, and Community Counselling and Resource Centre, and also hold our annual Day of Caring to support seniors and community members.

Here’s how our investments in our community focus area have supported individuals in our community:

Counselling sessions were provided to men who have experienced sexual abuse through Community Counselling & Resource Centre.

Clients received assistance for prescriptions, dental care, and vision care costs through The Salvation Army.

Drives were provided through Community Care Northumberland to seniors and clients attending essential medical appointments.

Volunteers generously contributed their time and skills at 30 jobs sites across Northumberland during our annual Day of Caring.

To learn more, find out more about the impact of our work in Northumberland County, or read our latest Impact Report.

Rose, Student

“I have learned about self-respect and how we must be kind to ourselves… One kind thing can change the world. Kindness is contagious and we should spread it.”

Mike, Client

“I was getting deeper and deeper into debt… I was asked by my doctor how I was doing, and I would nod and say I’m fine. Meanwhile, I had no food in the house, no money to buy any… To anyone struggling, take that first step, make a change, and ask for help.”

Ken, Donor & Past Client

“We share that common thread, where our lives have been impacted by United Way. You’re only one accident, one circumstance away from needing the services of United Way. Once I became self-sufficient, I felt the need to give back.”