Programs We Fund
Building Strong Neighbourhoods – A Great City is Within Reach
Immigrants, Aboriginal people, people living with disabilities, and people at-risk of violence are some of Brandon’s most vulnerable groups. Due mainly to language, physical and social barriers, and because the insurgence of so many new citizens from different cultures happened so quickly, these groups cannot easily access programs and services which then puts them at risk of social isolation. In 2008-09, United Way of Brandon has made some significant inroads in addressing this issue. We are investing more money than ever before into community programs, agencies and initiatives to help improve the lives of people in our community.
With your support, United Way invests in a network of programs and collaborative initiatives that help people live more independent lives. For example, they can:
- Access community-based health and/or rehabilitation services
- Connect to and receive counselling and support to cope with family, social and psychological problems
- Participate in coordinated services/activities
- Find help in preventing, resolving and escaping abuse.
Moving Out of Poverty – Families Achieving Stability
In 2008-09 United Way will provide funds to support programs and initiatives that help low-income Brandonites to help themselves become more economically self-sufficient. United Way invests in programs and services that help people obtain job skills and employment, develop financial literacy as well as access and maintain safe affordable housing.
United Way invests in a network of programs and long-term initiatives to help economically challenged families and to reduce poverty. One example is the total service aspect provided to clients using the Samaritan House Food Bank. Samaritan House provides more services than just the very important food hamper to families. Through this program your support to United Way helps families and individuals break the cycle of poverty or avoid many poverty-related issues and effects. For example, families can:
- Meet their basic needs for food, clothing and shelter
- Gain basic job skills, find stable employment and work towards financial stability
- Learn about budgeting, managing and saving money
- Receive support in their search for safe, affordable housing
- Join community hubs in which families support one another
- Give their children healthier, more resilient childhoods
Children and Youth – Achieving Success.
A stronger future for children and youth- 15.9 per cent of Brandon’s children live below the poverty line without the financial, health and educational supports they need to reach their full potential.
In 2008-09 we are investing close to $280,000 to help kids facing some of life’s most difficult challenges, such as living with poverty, leaving street life, adapting to life in a new country and dealing with physical, mental and developmental disadvantages.
United Way invests in a community collaboration of child and youth programs and special initiatives such as Coats for Kids and Tools for Schools. Your support of United Way helps kids and their families discover and reach their potential in many different ways. For example, they can:
- Find help in overcoming crisis and developing stable lives
- Take advantage of youth development and leadership opportunities
- Join in sports and recreational activities
- Attend programs to help improve their English and learn more about life in Canada
- Enjoy enriched preschool and early childhood development opportunities
- Receive support and guidance in the critical hours before and after school.