We are living in uncertain times, with the threat and impact of tariffs looming. We know that economic hardship leads to social hardship. The escalating trade war is likely to lead to job loss, an increased cost of living, and poorer health and wellbeing of individuals and their families. This means more people in our community will find themselves in need of help – many for the first time – at a time when demand for essential community services is already at an all-time high and resources are already stretched thin.
Yet, amidst these challenges, an impactful shift is taking place that is offering hope not just for those we serve, but for the entire community’s wellbeing. Non-profits from the poverty elimination, food security and housing sectors are coming together under a collective effort called Poverty to Possibility convened by United Way Guelph Wellington Dufferin with support from the Guelph & Wellington Task Force for Poverty Elimination.
By aligning our resources, expertise and strategies, we are finding new efficiencies and amplifying our impact. By transforming the ways we work together, we are streamlining services to avoid duplication, sharing information to better understand community needs, and leveraging each other’s strengths to provide support to those struggling with poverty. The impact: we are moving more people from poverty to possibility, but we can’t do it alone.
As the federal election approaches, we urge candidates and policymakers to prioritize solutions that address the root causes of poverty. A firm commitment to ending homelessness and eliminating poverty, alongside bold action to expand affordable and supportive housing, strengthen income supports, and ensure access to adequate health services, isn’t just the right thing to do it’s a smart economic choice. When people have stable incomes they can afford nutritious food, maintain their health, and fully contribute in their communities. This not only reduces homelessness and poverty but also alleviates pressure on emergency services, healthcare systems, and social supports, strengthening community well-being and saving taxpayer dollars in the long run.
Despite the challenges ahead, our message is one of hope. Non-profits are not just weathering the storm – we are buckling down, working smarter, and uniting together to support those who need it most. With the right support from government, donors, and the community, we can turn the tide on poverty and build a brighter future for all.
Now is the time to act. On April 28th, make your voice heard and cast your vote. Voting is an important way for you to create positive change in our community. Together, we can move from crisis to collaboration, from poverty to possibility.
Glenna Banda
Executive Director, United Way Guelph Wellington Dufferin
Dominica McPherson
Director, Guelph & Wellington Task Force for Poverty Elimination
Jaya James
Executive Director, Hope House
Tom Armitage
Manager, The SEED
Crystle Avery
Executive Director, Chalmers Community Services
Gail Hoekstra
Executive Director, Stepping Stone
Kristen Cairney
Executive Director, Wyndham House
Daria Allan-Ebron
Executive Director, Kindle Communities