United Way Oxford opens funding application process

Lee Griffi, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

United Way Oxford has opened the application process to receive funding for the 2025-2026 fiscal year. It is open to organizations directly serving county residents and a statement of interest must be submitted by Sept. 30.

The organization invests in programs and services that address local issues by focusing on three investment priorities - All That Kids Can Be, Building Strong Communities and From Poverty to Possibility. By focusing on today's needs and reducing tomorrow's needs, United Way Oxford works with local community partners to build a caring and inclusive community where everyone lives with dignity, belonging, opportunity and hope.

Lindsay Wilson is the Community Impact and Engagement Manager and explained three organizations have been long-time partners with the organization because they are so important to residents.

“They include the kid’s programs like Big Brothers Big Sisters, the Fusion Youth Centre and the Navy League. We know these initiatives prevent the need for other services in the future. When kids are strong and healthy they may not need mental health services for example.”

Wilson said it isn’t possible to say how much money will be up for grabs next year since they rely heavily on fundraising efforts. Last year the United Way raised over $1.2 million.

“It is nearly impossible to give a number. Our resource development team is working hard to launch the campaign in a few weeks and it will be our 60th time. It really all depends on how the campaign goes. We can’t give out money we don’t have.”

She explained funding is critical to the survival of programs including one through the Canadian Mental Health Association.

“A good example is the CMHA’s walk-in counselling. That program in Oxford didn’t exist before United Way funding. It means people can access mental health services without being put on a waitlist. There are several locations or people can access it virtually or by phone.”

Wilson added the program started as a pilot and is growing but doesn’t have any long-term government funding.

“That’s where we can play a role, by helping programs get started, make sure they work and prove they have an impact. The United Way is the largest funder of social services after government and we are proud of that impact.”

United Way Oxford currently funds 11 organizations delivering more than 30 programs that address children’s literacy and nutrition, mental health, housing, supports for people living with dementia, youth mentorship and more. These investments also sustain 42 local jobs.

Organizations interested in applying to United Way Oxford for the first time should book an appointment to discuss their program. Local charitable organizations are encouraged to attend an information session to learn more about the investment process, eligibility requirements and funding opportunities on Sept. 19 at 1 p.m. Organizations can learn more or register for an information session at https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_VL6zJL2ISqO9YSWNmRePeA#/.