Moving People from Poverty to Possibility
No one should have to choose between nutritious food, safe shelter, or other basic needs. Yet, people in our community are being faced with those decisions, and those living in poverty are hit the hardest. When individuals struggle to meet their basic needs like food and housing, their short- and long-term health and well-being suffers. When people have their basic needs met, they are free to pursue activities that provide them with stability like education, employment and social interactions with friends and family.
United Way helps individuals become financially independent by securing safe and affordable housing and developing skills to prepare for a better future by supporting programs that provide access to basic needs so that people have the opportunity to get ahead.
UNITED to Help Meet Basic Needs:
- 41% of United Way Oxford’s funding allocation for 2023-24.
- Reflects United Way Oxford’s commitment to a housing first approach.
- 185 individuals were supported to stay housed in Oxford County, avoiding eviction and homelessness.
- 35,998 meals were provided to help those living with food insecurity.
- Last year, 2,081 people received support and services to meet their basic needs of food and shelter.
Your Support in Action
Oxford County Community Heath Centre and Transitional Housing
“Moving into The Light House changed my life. My life had taken a drastic turn, and I didn’t have a place to call home, making it very difficult to get back on my feet. Not only did The Light House provide me with a safe place to stay, but there was also someone there to help connect me with other services while I worked to get back on track. It felt good to be a part of a community again in the house, and I wouldn’t be where I am today without that opportunity.” Joe, Tillsonburg Light House Resident
Funding Strategies:
Options for accessing and preparing affordable, healthy food.
Supports and options to obtain and maintain affordable, safe and stable housing.
Opportunities to participate in life-development resources.
Programs and Community Outcomes:
- Access healthy and affordable food on a regular basis.
- Access to and can maintain short term and long term housing.
- Access to education and learning resources designed to help move people out of poverty.
- Services and programs are available to address all levels of the basic needs continuum.
- Community members who have received supports are living in stability and become contributors to the community and/or economy.
- Fewer people seek/are on supports.