When you support the United Way of Thunder Bay, you’re helping to improve local lives and build a better community. This means that people have access to the supports and services they need the most. Here are just some of the many lives that have been positively impacted because of your support.
Your Donations in Action
Here is a story that demonstrates how your 2021 donations are helping people today
In the fall of 2021, 36 people experiencing homelessness were living in encampments and under bridges throughout Thunder Bay. These individuals were dealing with hunger, freezing temperatures, and unsafe conditions.
Community Recovery
Since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, the United Way of Thunder Bay and our community partners have mobilized to meet the needs of at-risk individuals, seniors, children and families. Read a sample of stories from local organizations that worked side by side with United Way to help our community pull through these tough times…
Kaitlyn’s Story
I met Linda roughly 6 years ago when I was in grade 7. Linda helped me when I needed it most whether it was schoolwork, food, or clothing she was able and more than willing to help me out. I soon noticed that I wasn’t the only kid coming to both the Evergreen house and Park for help. No matter how spread the community was we all came together at Evergreen….
Breaking Down Barriers
I have been taking this Literacy Group class since September, 2018. I went into this class because my English was not good enough to take me to college. In the class, the Instructor gave me a short learning plan and where I should start to upgrade my English skills to go to college…
Giving Back
When OKC took over the face painting program, I was asked if I wanted to volunteer, well my first reaction was no way but….fast forward 6 years and I can not imagine not Facepainting. When the young children first look in the mirror and see what you’ve face-painted their smile and excitement makes your heart swell…
Overcoming Tough Times
If given a choice no one would choose to come to a soup kitchen. Pride is usually left at the door and first time visitors to our soup kitchen are easily identified by their awkwardness. In September of this year, we encountered a young woman with a child in tow standing uncomfortably just inside the doorway…
Krista’s Story
The day I signed up for the “Pathways to Resilience course ” was the starting point of my life I always wanted and knew could exist. Alongside like-minded people who all made a choice to live the best life they possibly could. With the guidance and assistance of Joanne and Claudia, they created a meeting place, a safe space, and an environment free of judgment that allowed all of us to feel accepted and comfortable to share and be are genuine selves…
Carla’s Story
An individual named Carla came into the 211 office and was visibly distressed; she sat down and started using our free computers and internet site. She was asked if she needed any help but she didn’t seem to want to open up, and continued using the computer. After a few minutes, this individual was in tears and could not stop crying…
Keeping Families Together
Brenda* and John* have been in a relationship for 1.5 years and have a baby together. Brenda has just finished her high school credits and John quit school to find a job, he currently works three part-time jobs to make ends meet. John and Brenda called for counselling as their arguments were escalating…
A New Start
Jane recently fled to Canada to escape violence. She had to leave all her belongings behind and start again in a place where she had no friends or family, trying to survive on Ontario Works benefits. She came to a Good Food Box pack day with a group of volunteers and found it was a great place to make friends and learn new skills…
Abby’s Story
Throughout my two years working with Youth 4 Community helped me nurture my leadership abilities. Youth 4 Community taught me how to work comfortably in a team setting, and how to solve problems using input from everyone. It was a valuable experience that a thoroughly enjoyed.
