Neighbourhood Strategy
In 2005, United Way launched a five-year Neighbourhood Strategy aimed at strengthening underserved, inner suburban neighbourhoods. The strategy responded to the growing trends of poverty and increasing population growth in these areas—areas that are home to a significant number of newcomers and youth. The Neighbourhood Strategy involves a broad range of activities, with a particular emphasis on 13 priority neighbourhoods jointly identified by United Way Toronto and the City of Toronto as requiring targeted social investment and support. Components of the strategy include the following:
- ACTION FOR NEIGHBOURHOOD CHANGE – an initiative that will strengthen 13 priority inner-suburban neighbourhoods through resident engagement and community building with a view to creating long-term sustainable change,
- COMMUNITY HUBS – an initiative that will seed development of new community service hubs in eight of the priority neighbourhoods, where infrastructure is particularly lacking,
- YOUTH PROGRAMS – a series of special youth initiatives that focus on leadership, community engagement through the arts, and investment in educational success,
- INCREMENTAL INVESTMENT – 75% of all new funding raised annually from the UW campaign will be targeted to inner suburban neighbourhoods.
We have achieved several milestones in support of the neighbourhood strategy.
2007
- 4 new ANC projects roll out in Westminster - Branson, Victoria Village, Dorset Park, Jane-Finch
- Focus on Youth Toronto (open schools summer initiative)
- United Way Toronto / Pathways to Education partnership
2006
- Community hub and Community Health Centre announced in Eglinton East-Kennedy Park
- 4 ANC projects roll out in Weston-Mt. Dennis, Eglinton East-Kennedy Park, Steeles L'Amoreux, Lawrence Heights
- Youth Challenge Fund pilot project on educational attainment—Rexdale and Lawrence Heights
- Bridge to Success pilot project North Albion Collegiate Institute
2005
- Strong Neighbourhoods Strategy established
- 13 priority neighbourhoods identified by United Way Toronto and the city of Toronto
- Federal Government and United Way Toronto pilot Action for Neighbourhood Change (ANC) project in Scarborough Village
2004
- Poverty by Postal Code report released
- Strong Neighbourhood Task Force (SNTF) created

