United Way Greater Toronto: Mental Health Impact Area

Mental health can affect all areas of a person’s life –from employment to housing to relationships and more. So, at United Way Greater Toronto (UWGT), we’re working tirelessly to increase access to support and coordination of services, reduce social isolation, and improve overall well-being for people facing mental health challenges.

THE CHALLENGE

Despite increasing and increased awareness of mental health struggles, many are still suffering in silence due to stigma, long waitlists, high costs of treatment and services and other barriers. While anyone can experience mental health challenges, some are more likely to be vulnerable, including people experiencing poverty, young people, and people involved with the criminal justice system. Post-pandemic, things are even more dire, with Canadian mental health being three times worse than before the pandemic. Which is why we must use every tool in our toolbox to break down the barriers that impede access to mental health services and pave the way for a GTA where people can access the essential resources they need when they need it most.

BUILDING A FOUNDATION TO SUPPORT WELL-BEING

Your support will help fuel our work, together with our network of community agencies, to support 76 mental health programs. We’re steadfast in our funding, which helps provide mental health services like therapy, intervene during crises, champion harm reduction, reduce social isolation and more. We’re also supporting the essential spaces where people can go for help, like our Community Hubs, which offer counselling and social connections. We collaborate with partners to address the interconnected issues people are facing—including having a seat at the table at the Wellesley Institute’s Wellbeing Toronto Table to focus on neighbourhoods disproportionately impacted by poverty, with limited access to services and where residents face significant challenges with mental health and substance dependency. No one should live a life without hope, so we’re digging deep into research, advocacy and policy, while working relentlessly on the ground to help those in crisis.

JOIN US. Stable and lasting mental health is the basis for a good life—one that includes adequate employment, housing, and relationships. Donate today and help expand access to mental health support for everyone in the GTA and enhance the overall well-being of individuals facing mental health challenges. Any way we can.