Building Economic Resilience. Transforming Lives.

United Way Centraide is empowering people and strengthening communities nationwide, creating pathways to financial stability and brighter futures. The case studies that follow highlight local economic development initiatives made possible through your support. Together, we’re turning potential into lasting change.

From Poverty to Possibility: How SEED Winnipeg and United Way Centraide Build Economic Resilience

For more than 25 years, United Way Winnipeg and SEED Winnipeg have supported community members facing financial barriers—helping newcomers reclaim careers, parents unlock life‑changing benefits, and thousands build the stability every family deserves. Thanks to United Way Winnipeg, more than 16,000 people have received vital financial help services, while strategic community partnerships helped return over $45 million in income tax refunds and benefits to families who need it most.

Building Community, Strengthening Economies: How United Housing Is Transforming Local Development in Perth–Huron

Access to safe, affordable housing is more than a social good — it is economic infrastructure. In Perth–Huron, where geography, local workforce realities, and rising housing pressures intersect, United Housing is demonstrating what is possible when rural community builders like United Way Perth-Huron take bold steps to build local economic resilience.

Seeta’s Story

A widow for over 30 years, Seeta was feeling lonely and isolated as she struggled with her health. Thanks to United Way Centraide, she found a local seniors’ yoga program that is helping her stay fit, connecting her with new friends, and lifting her spirits.

Owning the Future: How United Way Centraide Is Placing Nature at the Heart of Economic Development

Discover how long-term support from United Way British Columbia helped Clubhouse Child Care Center turn a leased farm into British Columbia’s first licensed nature-based preschool. While putting nature at the heart of local economic development, this work supported Clubhouse in strengthening its financial resilience, expanding hands-on learning, and creating lasting economic opportunities for children, families, and the wider Kelowna community.

The EARN Initiative: United Way Centraide is Building Stronger Local Economies Through Inclusive Employment

United Way East Ontario’s Employment Accessibility Resource Network (EARN) shows how inclusive employment can strengthen local economies and reduce financial anxiety. By connecting employers, service providers, community organizations, and disability support organizations, the network has grown to more than 180 members and helped more than 11,000 people with disabilities find employment since 2010. Discover how long-term collaboration and shared capacity are creating more accessible workplaces, inclusive employment and stronger pathways to stability.