It’s a fair question, one that many charities are accustomed to hearing: “Where does the money go?”
With the United Way, every dollar raised stays local and supports programs run by trusted community partners who meet real, measurable needs.
The organization serves as a connector—creating lasting, positive change by bringing together individuals, nonprofits, businesses, government, and organizations to identify local needs, coordinate resources, and strengthen the network of support across our region.
As part of this work, United Way is taking a closer look at how those needs are changing. They’ve launched a community feedback survey to hear directly from local residents about where they believe dollars should go and what services are most needed. This insight will help guide the Community Investment Committee and Board of Directors when making funding decisions.
United Way believes that everyone has a voice in shaping a stronger community—especially donors and residents who care deeply about where their contributions make the greatest impact.
“The United Way exists to help everyone thrive,” says Lori Huston, Executive Director, United Way Sault Ste. Marie & Algoma District. “We’re not only a fundraising organization, but a movement for local change. Every dollar raised stays right here to support the people and places that make Algoma home.”
The United Way is also a tremendous resource for those looking to make a difference—whether by giving, volunteering, or acting by sharing their message. There are so many ways you can help.
Recently, the organization wrapped up a number of successful community initiatives, including:
- Backpacks for Success: Hundreds of students were provided with the supplies they needed to have a strong start to the school year. This year, 620 backpacks were filled with essential school supplies to help children in our community who needed them most.
- Period Promise: Did you know menstrual products are one of the most requested items at food banks—yet among the least donated? For this annual event, the United Way partners with OC Beauty to collect thousands of menstrual products for local organizations and raise awareness about period poverty.
- Community Volunteer Income Tax Program (CVITP): Offered in partnership with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), this long-standing national initiative helps individuals and families in need—such as seniors, single parents, and those living on social assistance—file their taxes for free and access vital government benefits.
In addition to the initiatives it runs directly, United Way funds a total of 19 local programs and initiatives delivered by trusted community partners across the Algoma District. These partnerships allow United Way to extend its reach—supporting essential services that address poverty, food insecurity, youth mentorship, recovery, and community safety.
You can explore the full list of funded programs here.
Donors can feel good about giving to the United Way, as all donations are invested directly into initiatives that benefit the community we live in.
“We work closely with local partners to tackle poverty and other challenges that affect individuals and families. Through focused strategies in our three core areas—Moving People from Poverty to Possibility, Helping Kids Be All They Can Be, and Building Strong Communities—we support programs that reduce the effects of low income and improve well-being across Algoma,” says Huston.
Every contribution, no matter the size, directly supports programs that improve lives here in Sault Ste. Marie and beyond.
Your input and your generosity both make a difference.
Take a few minutes to complete the Community Feedback Survey and Donate today. Together, we can ensure every dollar and every voice helps shape a stronger Sault Ste. Marie & Algoma District.
Learn more about the United Way Sault Ste. Marie & Algoma District. Follow them on Facebook and Instagram @unitedwaysault.