At United Way, we invest in programs that will make an impact and change the lives of those living in Colchester County.
Our funded programs are selected once a year through an application process. Our Community Investment Committee is a group diverse group of community members that review applications to ensure the program relates to our focus areas, will truly make a difference in Colchester and the applicant agency is accountable. The Committee then makes its recommendations to our Board of Directors for approval.
Thanks to the generosity of our donors, individuals including children, youth, and families, received support from our Community Partners and United Way programs. Donations helped move people out of poverty, meet basic human needs, and improve the lives of some of the most vulnerable in Colchester.
Children, youth, and families who were in need of food, housing, counseling, education, safety, and many other vital services and supports, were able to access them. Here’s how United Way donors are creating possibilities for people throughout Colchester:
Boys and Girls Club of Truro and Colchester
Afterschool Program – By funding subsidies for children who would not be able to attend the afterschool program, we’re helping give them a safe place to go with experienced staff and volunteers to talk to and with positive activities to do. This support allows them to feel empowered to do well in school and be all they can be.
Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA)
Food Services Program – United Way of Colchester funds a CMHA staff member to teach clients how to budget, prepare, and provide economical and nutritious lunches three times a week and supper once a week. Coming together to share a meal provides opportunities for education, reconnection, and rebuilding self-esteem and confidence. Clients are primarily from Central Colchester as well as Brookfield, Debert, Stewiacke, and Old Barns.
Colchester Adult Learning Association (CALA)
The Right to Read Program – This program gives Adult Learners the confidence and self-esteem to put new literacy skills to use to improve their lives. The program focuses on communication, numeracy, and workplace readiness.
Maggie’s Place
Five Rural Parent and Tot Playgroups – Set in Great Village, Bible Hill, Stewiacke, Debert, and Old Barns, these playgroups improve access to early childhood learning opportunities for children and families living outside of Truro. Activities encourage early childhood development for rural children and support networks for their families.
The Lotus Centre
Girl Power Summer Camps – Summer camps for girls ages 6 to 12. This gender-based learning environment allows girls to learn about themselves in a positive way. Girl Power programs are safe spaces that are designed to support and build confidence and to promote positive self-esteem and self-image.
Third Place Transition House
Women’s Outreach Worker – A United Way of Colchester funded Outreach Worker provides group and individual support and counseling, workshops, advocacy, and public education on family violence. This program reaches out to women throughout Colchester County experiencing destructive and abusive relationships and serves to educate and support them in the quest for a safe and meaningful life for themselves and their children.
Truro Homeless Outreach Society
The Community Navigator – This support worker provides support to people who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless in the Truro area. The navigator helps to fill the gap on the housing continuum by supporting individuals, families, and those at imminent risk of homelessness to address quality-of-life issues that affect their health, wellness, and connection with the community they live in.