Community Initiatives

United Way Community Initiatives

Backpacks For Success

Since the Backpacks for Success program launched locally in 2003, United Way Peterborough & District has provided more than 13,000 backpacks containing grade-appropriate school supplies to local youth in Kindergarten through Grade 12 who are financially vulnerable. Each year, this program sees community donors and volunteers come together to make a tangible difference by ensuring that local students are provided with the tools they need to be successful.

Learn More: Backpacks for Success

Coats For Community

We know the need for warm winter coats in our community is great, not just for local youth but for economically vulnerable adults as well. In 2023, we collected and distributed 1,844 coats to residents of Peterborough City and County who were unable to purchase their own.

Learn More: Coats for Community

Period Promise (formerly Tampon Tuesday)

Menstruation products are a basic necessity. But if you’re living in poverty – or vulnerable in other ways – access to tampons, pads, cups or menstrual underwear, can be challenging.

Learn More: Period Promise

Day Of Caring

Our Day of Caring event brings the community together while demonstrating the power of volunteering. Local businesses partner with United Way Peterborough & District to assist in completing projects at United Way funded agencies. These projects vary and can include construction, restoration, community special events or agency work. By providing a team of volunteers, companies help member agencies complete important tasks. Day of Caring is a unique event that allows businesses to get directly involved in their own community while promoting team building, boosting morale, and increasing  your company’s community profile. The Day of Caring program connects businesses with volunteer opportunities that matter to you and your community.

Learn More: Day of Caring

Seeing is Believing

Seeing is Believing tours are your opportunity to understand other people’s realities, by engaging your employees, co-workers, volunteers, family or friends in finding out more about UWP’s community-building work and partner agencies.

Expect to be inspired, engaged, surprised, and witness – up close – the impact of your contribution on creating long-lasting social change.

If you or your workplace would like to participate in a tour, please contact United Way Peterborough: Contact Us

Social Posts

We had such an amazing time at our 2025 Campaign Celebration last Thursday, celebrating our community coming together to raise an astounding $1.56 million in support of essential, front-line programs and services❤️!
🌎💙 Health is about more than medicine — it’s about community.

Access to housing, food, mental health support, and connection all shape our well-being.

This World Health Day, we’re committed to building stronger, healthier communities for everyone.

#WorldHealthDay
Our office will be closed on Friday, April 3 and Monday, April 6, an will reopen on Tuesday, April 7. 

Have a safe and restful long weekend!
At United Way Peterborough & District, we believe in building a community where everyone feels seen, valued, and included. Autism is part of the rich diversity that strengthens our community. 

Let’s move beyond awareness and continue working toward acceptance, accessibility, and meaningful inclusion for all.

#WorldAutismAwarenessDay
Today marks the beginning of our new campaign season and with that, we must sadly announce… more
Today Trans Day of Visibility 🏳️⚧️

We celebrate the courage, resilience, and contributions of transgender, non-binary, and gender non-conforming people who make our communities stronger every day. 

Let’s keep fostering a culture of inclusion and respect for all!
#ThrowbackThursday reminiscing on more than 80 years of building community in Peterborough & District ❤️.
We’ll always remember this campaign, and the incredible leadership behind it 💫

Over the past year, Paul has brought dedication, energy, and heart to every part of this campaign. From milestone moments to the quiet work behind the scenes, his commitment never wavered (even when it meant going back up on the roof!).

Now, it’s time to celebrate everything this community has accomplished together.

🎉 Join us at Campaign Celebration on April 9th 
🎟️ Get your tickets today [link in bio]
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