Together We Can Make Better Possible
Guelph, Ontario, December 9, 2025.
Every year, United Way works to raise millions of dollars to keep essential community programs running. These donations fund services that over 145,000 local people rely on—programs addressing food insecurity, homelessness, mental health and more. Right now, the 2025 United Way campaign is facing a critical shortfall. Without immediate support, programs that thousands depend on could be reduced or even disappear.
“We know things are hard right now for many, and we understand that some who have donated in the past might not be in a position to do so right now,” said Deputy John Kelly, 2025 United Way Campaign Chair and Deputy Minister for the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness. “We’re asking those who have the ability to give, or give a little bit more, to help as they can. Small acts of kindness, even giving just a few dollars, can change a life.”
Right now, many of our neighbours, friends and family are struggling – struggling to put food on their tables, to keep a roof over their heads and with their mental health. Our non-profit sector is also struggling to meet the rising demand of our community. United Way currently supports 51 programs that impact over 145,000 people across Guelph, Wellington & Dufferin. But the fact is, United Way is only able to support these programs as people are able to give.
“What does a funding shortfall mean? It means a food bank open one less day per week, or a client unable to receive life-saving counselling during a mental health crisis,” said Glenna Banda, executive director, United Way Guelph Wellington Dufferin.
“Know that your donation, large or small, matters,” added Kelly. “Pooled together, each contribution and action will make a difference and fuel community change. That’s the power of a United Way.”
Recent community data shows that food insecurity in Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph has gone up nearly 13 per cent since 2019, reaching 25 per cent in 2024. 1 in 5 people are experiencing a mental illness.
“These numbers are upsetting. But we know we have the vision, ability and partnerships to make better possible,” said Banda. “A gift to United Way does more than address urgent needs—it fuels innovative solutions that create lasting change and a brighter future for everyone”, said Banda.
United Way champions two major collaborative initiatives: From Poverty to Possibility, focused on income, food, and housing security, and All That Kids Can Be, dedicated to reducing the impact of adverse childhood experiences on children and youth. Together, these initiatives unite 18 local organizations, not only through funding but by fostering shared strategies for greater efficiency and impact.
Beyond investing in critical community programs, United Way is committed to strengthening and sustaining the charitable and nonprofit sector. A resilient social services network is essential to address the growing health, social, and economic challenges in our community.
“Building community takes community. The community we want to see will not happen without all of us. Better won’t happen if we wait for some other person or some other time. We have to be the ones to make it happen,” said Banda. “Better is possible and there’s no better time than now.”
Donations are accepted online at unitedwaygwd.com, by phone at (519) 821-0571 or by mail at 85 Westmount Road, Guelph, ON N1H 5J2. All donations made before December 31st are eligible for a 2025 tax receipt. Donations, as always, will stay 100% local.
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United Way Guelph Wellington Dufferin has worked in our community for 85 years to monitor and meet the pressing social needs of our community, including poverty, social isolation and mental health. Directed by a volunteer board, managed by committed staff and supported by thousands of donors, United Way works with partners in all sectors to improve lives and build community. Donations to United Way are accepted year-round, by visiting us online at unitedwaygwd.com or by calling the United Way office 519-821-0571. Donations stay 100% local, always. For more information, please visit unitedwaygwd.com
For More Information:
Glenna Banda, Executive Director
United Way Guelph Wellington Dufferin
glenna@unitedwaygwd.com
Colleen Murdoch
Director, Community Engagement & Impact
United Way Guelph Wellington Dufferin
colleen@unitedwaygwd.com