Waterloo, ON – United Way Waterloo Region is proud to announce its second quarter funding allocations for 2026, totaling $500,000. These investments will support critical local organizations dedicated to enhancing the lives of children and youth, preventing hate and gender-based violence, and strengthening community resilience.
This quarter’s funding prioritizes two critical areas of need: Children and Youth, and Hate, Gender-Based, and Family Violence. Funding will provide mentorship, trauma-informed care, and wraparound support through agencies such as Big Brothers Big Sisters of Waterloo Region, Child Witness Centre, and oneROOF Youth Services. Additional program support is directed to YWCA Cambridge, John Howard Society of Waterloo-Wellington, Canadian Aweil Youth Association, Peace for All Canada, and Preston Heights Community Group.
In the area of violence prevention and survivor support, funding strengthens the work of the Sexual Assault Support Centre of Waterloo Region, Women’s Crisis Services of Waterloo Region, and Shelter Movers Southwestern Ontario.
Strategic partnerships are also a key part of this funding round. Collaborations with the Children & Youth Planning Table, Immigration Partnership, and Volunteer Waterloo Region support cross-sector alignment and coordinated impact. Each of these funded partners has received a year-long funding commitment, distributed quarterly to ensure stability and flexibility.
“We are honoured to partner with and support these incredible organizations working on the front lines of change,” said Joan Fisk, CEO of United Way Waterloo Region. “By investing in their efforts, we are building a safer, healthier, and more inclusive community for all.”
United Way’s funding decisions are informed by local data, guided by community voices, and driven by a strong commitment to equity. Every dollar invested stays local, directly supporting vital programs that help individuals and families thrive.
For more information and a full list of funded partners, visit Community Investments or contact:
Peter Lenardon
Senior Manager, Corporate Relations
United Way Waterloo Region
519-888-6100 ext. 206
plenardon@uwaywrc.ca