Results reinforce need to work united to alleviate poverty in Manitoba
A new survey reveals nearly half (42%) of people living in Manitoba and Saskatchewan often find themselves in situations where they don’t know how they’re going to find the money to get by.
Additionally, nearly 1 in 3 people in the prairies knows someone close to them who’s experienced not having enough resources to meet basic needs.
The numbers represent the reality for many Manitobans right now—and reinforce the need for a strong social safety network to be here for our community.
“These findings underscore the significant financial stress facing people in Canada—especially low-income individuals and families,” said Dan Clement, President and CEO of United Way Centraide Canada, who commissioned the survey. “This stress is taking a toll on mental health and well-being, driving a rising need for strong, community-based supports.”
The Financial Anxiety in Canada Omniweb survey by Léger also reveals financial stress cuts across all income levels. That means for many, just one unexpected event could trigger a crisis.
“We never know when we or someone we know and love might need support: our co-workers, our neighbours, our family, our friends,” said JP Perron, volunteer fundraising Campaign Chair of United Way Winnipeg.
“It’s why giving to United Way Winnipeg is so important—to protect a strong social safety network so it’s ready and available to help anyone who reaches out in need.”
United Way Winnipeg donors raised $22.5 million last year to sustain a network of 125+ agencies, networks, and initiatives—with each organization contributing in their own significant ways to alleviate hardship.
These wraparound supports are vital to helping people manage their situation, create stability, and begin to move forward in their lives. Just a few examples:
- NorWest Co-op Community Health: served 34,183 meals last year.
- The Link: provided basic needs and supports to 1,074 youth more than 6,800 times—and provided 1,074 overnight shelter stays.
- Acorn Family Place: saw 4,190 visits to their playroom and nearly 6,000 visits to its drop-in space, where visitors could do laundry, access a phone and computer and a clothing depot.
- West Central Women’s Resource Centre: supported 482 people through housing programs, including preventing 108 evictions.
- 211 Manitoba: answered 14,966 calls to connect Manitobans with resources on housing, food security, mental health, and more.
“Someone connects with a United Way Winnipeg agency partner every 13 seconds,” said Perron.
“These survey findings underscore the critical responsibility we all have to give what we can to make sure those doors stay open and there’s a welcoming space whenever anyone reaches out for help.
“Nobody in our community should have to struggle alone.”
