United Way

Help Make a Difference

The OCDSB and United Way East Ontario have a shared belief that every child and youth deserves the chance to have a great life, no matter where in Ottawa they grow up.

United Way researches the issues in our community and understands the diverse challenges facing these local neighbourhoods. United Way, through its three focus areas - All That Kids Can Be, From Poverty to Possibility, and Healthy People, Strong Communities - provides support across the societal spectrum.  

In 2021, United Way’s annual report revealed these statistics:

  • On average, only 52% of youth graduate from high school in some Ottawa neighbourhoods as compared to over 80% for the rest of the city.
  • Almost 50% of children start school without a proper foundation for learning in some Ottawa neighbourhoods.
  • 70.2% of school-aged children saw at least one of the following progressively worsen during COVID-19: depression, anxiety, irritability, attention span, hyperactivity, and obsessions/compulsions.
  • 47% of Grade 7-12 students in Ontario indicate a moderate-to serious level of psychological distress (depression and anxiety).
  • One in seven Ontario students report symptoms of a drug use problem.
  • Violence accounts for at least 60% of the reasons young people are forced to leave home.
  • Almost 30% of youth who are homeless identify as 2SLGBTQ+.

United Way, through its efforts, is aiming to bring about lasting social change that will help these vulnerable kids. At the OCDSB, we’re committed to building a Culture of Caring and Social Responsibility. OCDSB’s partnership with United Way is supported by these pillars of our Strategic Plan. 

We ask that you consider giving to United Way. Your donation remains 100% local, and the local programs and initiatives United Way invests in ensure kids are ready to learn and provide children and youth with a safe place to go outside of school hours.

You can make a donation through payroll deduction, credit card, PayPal  or by making a one-time gift. You can make your donation online or using a paper form. You can direct some or all of your donation to the Education Foundation of Ottawa. Cathy Nevins Memorial Fund is also another option you may want to consider. Both of these funds give directly back to the students in OCDSB schools. 

Here are detailed instructions to help you with making a donation. 

To learn more about United Way East Ontario, visit the links below:

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