Did you know our community has the highest rate of child poverty in Canada according to the latest census data? In fact, 1 in 7 kids live in poverty across Windsor-Essex, and that rate is as high as 1 in 3 kids in some neighbourhoods.
But here’s the glimmer of hope: every step we take to support local kids in our community is a step towards a path out of poverty and a brighter future. It’s an investment not just in them, but in an economically stronger and more compassionate community.
When we work together, we’re not just providing food, education, and stability. We’re nurturing dreams, igniting potential, and shaping tomorrow’s leaders. We’re showing kids that they don’t have to stay in the cycle of poverty. We’re showing kids that they matter.
Let’s be the change-makers who break the cycle. Together, we can rewrite the story of childhood, turning sorrow into strength and adversity into opportunity. United Way is committed to putting your donations to work in Windsor-Essex county in the most effective way possible, when and where they’re needed most.
Recent Impact Stories
Meet Daniel, who struggled at school but found skills for success and happiness at Ignite Academy. His journey not only changed his life but also helped shape the program experience for kids like him with specialized needs.
January 11, 2024
Ignite Academy Student Spotlight: Dominik & Soheila
Ignite Academy represents hope for students like Dominik and their families. For Dominik’s Grandmother Soheila, the program is incredibly important because it brings out generosity and kindness in students and provides a sense of safety.
A key pillar of the On Track To Success (OTTS) program is the wrap-around supports available to each student and their family. You might ask, what exactly does wrap-around supports mean? Danielle, the parent of an OTTS student, tells us in her own words what these supports are and the positive impact they have had on her daughter as well as her whole family.
Annual Report to the Community
Thanks to local residents and donors, United Way/Centraide Windsor-Essex County is helping kids succeed from Cradle to Career. We released our Annual Impact Report to the Community, highlighting the progress that has been made to help local children overcome barriers to academic success.
How does United Way help improve my community?
When you make a donation to United Way, you are making an investment in your community and giving children, friends, and neighbours help when they need it most. Every dollar of your donation is invested right here in Windsor-Essex County to help children and their families forge a more prosperous future. United Way investments are rigorously measured for effectiveness and efficiency, ensuring that together we are driving the most meaningful results and the biggest possible impact.
What is Cradle to Career?
The Cradle to Career Model wraps supports around children, youth, and their families where they are needed most. The strategy leverages the combined investments of a broad cross-section of community partners through a community collective called ProsperUs.
Cradle to Career Solutions
Our Impact is Your Impact
We have so many inspiring stories of how your donations are changing lives in Windsor-Essex County.