You can’t solve a problem if you don’t know it exists. In our busy world, important local social issues can often go unnoticed. United Way wants to change that.
We all love this place we call home. With the excitement of growth and development, Milton is an attractive place to plant roots. Yet, with this intensive growth, challenges have also presented and a number of households and individuals are falling behind. Essentially, the equity gap is widening striking divide between those who have less.
One area that has raised specific concern is the matter of poverty. In comparison to other Halton Region communities, Milton is seeing the fastest rate of poverty: a social issue often described as invisible. The community is also seeing a rapidly growing senior population, driving elderly isolation and a stronger prevalence of mental illness.
Among these growing pains the community can count on the collaboration of the Town of Milton, United Way and other groups to stand together to build a community that is great for everyone.
Although local social issues like poverty, homelessness, and mental illness are keeping residents from living a fulfilling life, the support from United Way funded agencies provides a safety net and access to the tools families and households need.
As the a New Year progresses and the winter months are upon us, this is often a time many reflect on these complex and challenging social problems. These are the problems that seem impossible to solve, the ones that are difficult to face, and the ones that are easy to ignore.
Your United Way goes looking for those problems year-round and finds every dollar it can to address them. That’s because United Way is relentless when it comes to changing the odds, no matter the obstacles.
Last year, approximately 21,250 Milton residents relied on 48 programs offered by 25 United Way supported agencies. By accessing these life changing programs, children and youth are connected to and involved in their community, residents have increased food security, and many have improved their mental health and are better able to handle life’s challenges.
From poverty, domestic violence, youth supports, mental illness, isolation – these un-ignorable issues belong to all of us.
“Milton residents are often unaware of the local issues that impact the community,” says Brad Park, president and CEO, United Way Halton & Hamilton. “All of the issues outlined in this campaign negatively impact our community by holding too many people back; yet take the dedication and commitment of the entire community to help solve them. Ultimately, we need this community to show its support. But first, we need your attention.
” Every dollar donated stays right here in the community and is invested in high impact local programs.
With donor investments backed by evidence, research and integrity, donors have confidence their gifts are making the greatest impact. This is how community makes all the difference.
On behalf of the more than 21,000 Milton residents relying on United Way supported programs, this is a time to stand together to help those most vulnerable. Community connects us all and we must band together and declare our most pressing social issues un-ignorable.
