United Way Peterborough & District grants $366,079.96 to 35 local programs through Emergency Community Support Fund

We are proud to have partnered with United Way Centraide Canada and the Government of Canada to deliver the Government of Canada’s Emergency Community Support Fund (ECSF) in Peterborough.

Over the past month, United Way Peterborough & District has received over 40 applications for community programs and services that support vulnerable community members. To date, 35 organizations have been approved for a total of $366,079.96. We are pleased to announce the ECSF is supporting the following:

  • $10,000 was invested in Big Brothers Big Sisters of Peterborough to provide virtual mentoring opportunities and small group activities to keep children feeling connected, safe and secure.
  • $10,000 was invested in Community Care Peterborough to assist seniors, caregivers and persons with disabilities living in poverty to attend medical and other essential appointments.
  • $10,000 was invested in Community Counselling & Resource Centre to provide services through an outside Housing Clinic ‘drop-in’ for homeless or precariously housed persons.
  • $10,000 was invested in Community Counselling & Resource Centre to assist individuals with community service orders find opportunities that provide physically distanced home projects and educational opportunities to complete their community service hours.
  • $5,000 was invested in Down Syndrome Association of Peterborough to provide virtual programming and social opportunities for individuals with Down Syndrome.
  • $6,135 was invested in Easter Seals ON to provide mobility and accessibility equipment to children, and supporting their families in the Peterborough region facing increased challenges due to the COVID-19 crisis.
  • $10,000 was invested in Elizabeth Fry Society of Peterborough to Elizabeth Fry Society Peterborough will increase their capacity to provide services to a greater number of service users, by developing alternative formats of program delivery and support.
  • $9,405 was invested in Five Counties Children’s Centre to allow children to receive their much needed treatment virtually at home and continue their progress while Centre sites are closed during Covid-19.
  • $11,689.62 was invested in Food for Kids Peterborough to continue feeding children who normally rely on breakfast programs every day to ensure they get the nourishment they need to grow and be healthy.
  • $10,000 was invested in Friends Reaching Individuals in Every Nation Doing Service (FRIENDS) to ensure that the FRIENDS location remains operational during the pandemic by supporting salary of the full time employee and the supplies needed.
  • $11,689.61 was invested in Good Neighbours Care Centre to maintain the food bank clothing store so those in need in Peterborough and the surrounding area may access it through the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • $10,000 was invested in Junior Achievement of Peterborough Lakeland Muskoka to run Junior Achievement programs digitally on an online campus so students from grades 3 – 12 can continue building financial and business skills through the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • $12,500 was invested in Kawartha Child Care Services (Compass Early Learning & Care) to prepare the space offered in partnership with Kawartha Land Trust for the ‘TimberNook’ program based on COVID-19 protocols for six vulnerable children.
  • $9,449.62 was invested in Kawartha Participation Projects Foundation to provide personal supports that are essential to the activities of daily living for adults with physical disabilities.  Offered in one of our 5 Housing Locations, or in the client’s home.
  • $9,888 was invested in Kawartha Youth Orchestra to design, develop, and deliver digital resources for interactive music enrichment for school-aged youth, vulnerable seniors, and long-term care residents within the Peterborough community.
  • $5,085 was invested in Kawartha-Haliburton Children’s Foundation to retrofit a meeting room inside at the Kawartha-Haliburton Children’s Aid Society’s Peterborough location with Plexiglas and utilizing additional PPE safety protocols so that KHCAS staff can resume indoor visits with their clients.
  • $10,000 was invested in KSAC to support those affected by sexual violence and to influence social change within our community.
  • $12,000 was invested in New Canadian Centre for a training program in use of technology for newcomers with lower literacy levels.
  • $10,000 was invested in Niijkiwendidaa Anishnaabekwewag Services Circle to support part time staff who will assist NASC program workers with the challenges associated with providing our services during COVID-19
  • $23,500 was invested in Nogojiwanong Friendship Centre to enhance Nogojiwanong Friendship Centre’s ability to prepare and provide weekly nourishing meals for our most vulnerable community members, including our Elders/Seniors, homeless, youth-at-risk and single parent families.
  • $10,000 was invested in PARN as part of their HIV prevention strategy, provide weekly programming for 2-SLGBTQIA youth 12-24 in Peterborough and area, which includes inclusive education and social components to reduce isolation, build resiliency and strengthen awareness regarding identity, health and wellness.
  • $10,000 was invested in Peterborough Green Up Association to provide access to equipment and learning supports to move an adult from non-rider to confident commuter, providing independent, low-cost transportation.
  • $10,000 was invested in Peterborough Youth Services to the Community Response Team (CRT) that provides mobile crisis outreach services for ages 0-18. It is designed to be flexible and responsive to the needs of youth.
  • $11,689.61 was invested in Saint Vincent de Paul Food Pantry to resume the personal grocery shopping in the pantry that was replaced by hampers handout when COVID-19 started, and restock shelves to ensure that customers can come into the food pantry and shop for groceries tailored to their specific dietary and family needs.
  • $1,615 was invested in Sensity to purchase technology to promote social inclusion and support a person in the Peterborough area who is deafblind during COVID-19 isolation. Allowing them to connect with peers, participate in virtual activities organized by Sensity and of their own choosing, and engage their creativity through apps and games all of which would promote inclusion and reduce their sense of isolation
  • $10,000 was invested in Special Olympics Ontario – Peterborough & Area to enable individuals with an intellectual disability currently without access to electronic materials to access content to remain connected, informed, healthy and active.
  • $11,689.61 was invested in John’s Anglican Church – One Roof to provide large portions of healthy take away lunches for the clients, increasing the number of snacks people can take with them at the lunch meal pickup, providing additional food to clients who have kitchen facilities and working with Nourish to continue to provide food boxes to clients as well.
  • $10,000 was invested in Telecare Distress Centre of Peterborough Inc. to train volunteers to take calls confidentially and non-judgmentally from anyone in our catchment area who may be in distress, particularly due to COVID-19 isolation and its effects.
  • $10,000 was invested in The Canadian Canoe Museum to rebuild social engagement and learning for isolated seniors through live virtual museum tours of the Canadian Canoe Museum’s collection and galleries.
  • $10,000 was invested in The Council of Persons with Disabilities to adjust the Community Accessibility evaluation Program (CAEP) and the Time in My Shoes (TIMS) program, moving them to a digital format. CAEP is offered to local businesses so they may enhance accessibility at their location. TIMS is an educational program aimed at raising awareness of the barriers to accessibility and inclusion for those living with disability.
  • $7,000 was invested in Township of Selwyn Public Library to provide programs that would include online book clubs, additional virtual children’s programs, and additional virtual adult programs such as online genealogy programs, trivia, and much more. Also, purchase a subscription to Hoopla, which provides public libraries the ability to offer patrons an enormous selection of digital video, music, audiobooks, and ebooks.
  • $12,000 was invested in Trent Valley Literacy Association to expand digital literacy training availability to new participants and purchase equipment and tools to reduce the digital divide for those already in service.
  • $10,000 was invested in Victim Services of Peterborough & Northumberland to purchase of a database with secure on-line text or chat capability to safely connect with clients during the pandemic.
  • $11,689.61 was invested in VON Peterborough Victoria Haliburton to prepare “Dinner on Us” care packages and drop them off at our client’s homes, since our adult day programs are not taking place.
  • $7,700 was invested in VON Peterborough Victoria Haliburton to purchase iPads and mobile internet hubs so that we can assist isolated clients to connect virtually with their family and friends.
  • $5,000 was invested in YMCA to purchase sports equipment for a modified camp that will adhere to provincial pandemic guidelines, which recommend that cohorts do not share equipment.
  • $11,354.28 was invested in Youth Emergency Shelter of Peterborough to promote the safety and well-being of youth experiencing homelessness through COVID-19, they will provide access to internet-based services for youth in emergency shelter and in their youth housing program for one year.

Click here to read the press release.

Social Posts

❤️Won’t you be our neighbour? 

Stay tuned, @_thetiffanyshow will be sharing the full story (and her inspiring Campaign Chair speech) soon. You won’t want to miss this!

#CertifiedNeighbour #UnitedWayPTBO
Don't miss out 👉 United Way Peterborough is now accepting applications for the Reaching Home program!

ℹ️ What is Reaching Home?
Reaching Home is a community-based program aimed at preventing and reducing homelessness across Canada by providing funding to communities to address local housing and homelessness needs.

Important details:
⭐ Applications will be reviewed based on alignment to community priorities, including:
• Creating, preserving, and enabling equitable access to housing
• Eviction prevention
• Outreach

⭐ The funding period is October 1, 2026, to March 31, 2028

📅 Applications close August 4, 2026.

Apply today at uwpeterborough.ca
Meaningful conversations are the first step toward meaningful change. This morning, our CEO, Jason Seguya, had the opportunity to meet with MP Harrison (@emmaaharrisonmp) to discuss some of the most pressing challenges facing our communities.

Part of the conversation focused on the recently published Financial Anxiety Index, a national research project undertaken by United Way Centraide Canada and conducted by Léger. The findings are clear: nearly half of Canadians say they could cover their basic expenses for only one month or less if their income were interrupted, and many report that their financial situation has worsened in recent months. The research also highlights that single parents, newcomers, and young people are among those experiencing the greatest financial strain.

Jason also had the opportunity to elaborate on United Way Peterborough & District’s role as the Community Entity for the Government of Canada’s Reaching Home program. For more than a decade, we have worked with local partners to administer federal homelessness funding, convene organizations across the sector, and support innovative, collaborative responses that help prevent and reduce homelessness in our community. Since 2020, more than $8 million in Reaching Home funding has been distributed locally to strengthen supports and services for those experiencing homelessness.

We appreciate the opportunity to share these insights and discuss the importance of coordinated community responses to poverty, housing insecurity, and homelessness. We look forward to continuing the conversation with MP Harrison in the months ahead as we work together to build a stronger, more connected community.
Breaking News: Jimothy has officially RSVP'd to our Fill the Fords event on August 8! 🎉

Want to join #Jimothy? Stop by Auto Connect between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. to donate new school supplies in support of our Backpacks for Success initiative. Together, we'll help fill the Fords and backpacks so that students of all ages can start the school year with the tools they need to succeed . 🎒📚💙
United Way Peterborough & District invites community members to our 84th Annual General Meeting on Thursday, August 6, at the McDonnel St. Community Centre.

The evening will begin with a Community Conversation and Welcome Gathering from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m., where you’ll have the opportunity to meet our CEO, Jason Seguya, hear about his vision for the future, and join the conversation about strengthening our community together. A reception with light appetizers will follow.

At 5:30 p.m., we’ll officially convene our Annual General Meeting to reflect on the past year, celebrate the impact we’ve made together, and conduct the business of the organization.

Space is limited! Please RSVP using the link in our bio.
🎒🚗 Introducing Fill the Fords! 🚗🎒

We’re teaming up with @autoconnectsales for a brand-new community event in support of our Backpacks for Success program, and you’re invited!

Join us on Saturday, August 8 from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. to help us fill the Fords with new backpacks, school supplies, and financial donations for local students preparing to head back to school.

❤️Last year, nearly 500 local students received fully stocked backpacks through Backpacks for Success. With your help, we can make an even bigger impact this year.

Make a day of it!
🍔 Community BBQ featuring offerings from @kingstmarket
🍦 FREE @central_smith ice cream for the first 100 eligible donations (you heard that right)
🐻 Meet some special mascot guests

Whether you donate a backpack, a pack of pencils, lined paper or make a financial contribution, every gift helps a local student start the school year prepared, confident, and ready to learn.

📍 Auto Connect Sales 1175 Lansdowne St. West
📅 Saturday, August 8
⏰ 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Save this post, tag a friend, and help us #FillTheFords for local students! 🛻✨🎒
👏 A huge thank you to @islinsurance for stepping up to support Backpacks for Success this year! 

Their workplace donation drive is officially underway, and it's a great reminder that making a difference is easy, and can start right at work.

Want to get your workplace, business, or organization involved? Hosting a Backpacks for Success supply drive is easy, fun, and has a direct impact on local students as they head back to school with the supplies they need to succeed.

💬 Comment "BACKPACK" below, and we'll send you everything you need to get started, including our workplace toolkit, wish list, and all the details.

Together, we can help ensure every student starts the school year ready to learn. 📚✨
Every great leader has a story... and today, we're excited to share the beginning of @_thetiffanyshow story as your 2026 United Way Campaign Chair.

As we launch our 85th Community Campaign, we're turning the page to a new chapter - one rooted in connection, collaboration, and the incredible power of community. Tiffany has spent years shining a spotlight on the people, organizations and stories that make Peterborough & District such a special place to call home. Now, she'll help lead a Campaign that celebrates what we can accomplish when we come together.

This grand reveal wouldn't have been possible without the creativity and generosity of Johanna Hawkshaw and the incredible team @yourtvptbo who helped bring our vision to life. Thank you for embracing the fun and helping us tell this story in such a memorable way.

If UW Campaign Chairs came with a Netflix special, we're pretty sure this would make the final cut 🎬🍿 ... 

A special thank you as well to our 2025 Campaign Chair, Paul Rellinger, and our amazing staff for being great sports and helping kick off this exciting new chapter.

Here's to 85 years of neighbours helping neighbours, and to everything we'll accomplish together this campaign.

Welcome to the team, Tiffany! We can't wait to see what we are able to accomplish together.

#UnitedWayPeterborough #CommunityCampaign #85YearsUnited
Now Accepting Applications!📣

United Way Peterborough & District is pleased to announce that we are once again accepting proposals for funding through Reaching Home. 

Reaching Home: Canada’s Homelessness Strategy is a community-based program aimed at preventing and reducing homelessness across Canada. This program provides funding to communities to help them address their local homelessness needs. 

📝To apply, please visit our website at uwpeterborough.ca
‼️All applications must be submitted by Tuesday, August 4, 2026. 

If you’re interested in applying but aren’t sure if you’re eligible, or if you have questions that aren’t answered in the online checklist, please reach out to us at ℹ️ reachinghome@uwpeterborough.ca.
Well prepared and ready to learn! 📚✏️
That’s what Backpacks for Success is all about! Your support helps ensure that students across Peterborough & County have the materials they need to take on the 2026 school year with confidence.

Whether you host a collection drive, become an event sponsor, or make a monetary donation, every contribution makes a difference to school aged students from grades K–12. 

📲 Contact us today to get involved!
Clue number TWO✌️!

Every great leader has a story. Can you find the words that help tell the story of our 2026 Campaign Chair?

Drop your guesses below👇…
👀 The first clue has arrived!

Every great leader brings something special to the table, and these six emojis represent just a few things that make our 2026 Campaign Chair who they are ✨

Can you guess who it might be🤔?
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