Nearly half of people in Manitoba and Saskatchewan say they often don’t know how they’ll find the money to get by, according to a new survey commissioned by United Way Centraide Canada.
The Financial Anxiety in Canada survey, conducted by Léger, found 42 percent of respondents in the two provinces regularly face financial uncertainty. About one in three said someone close to them has gone without enough resources to meet basic needs.
“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, in a release.
“This stress is taking a toll on mental health and well-being, driving a rising need for strong, community-based supports.”
United Way Winnipeg volunteer campaign chair JP Perron said financial anxiety can affect anyone, regardless of income level.
“We never know when we or someone we know and love might need support: our co-workers, our neighbours, our family, our friends,” said Perron.
Last year, United Way Winnipeg donors contributed $22.5 million to support more than 125 local agencies and initiatives that provide essential services such as meals, shelter, and crisis support.
Among them: NorWest Co-op Community Health served more than 34,000 meals; The Link provided over 6,800 supports to youth; and 211 Manitoba answered nearly 15,000 calls connecting residents with housing, food, and mental health resources.
“Someone connects with a United Way Winnipeg agency partner every 13 seconds,” Perron added. “Nobody in our community should have to struggle alone.”
Read the Financial Anxiety in Canada survey:
United Way OmniCAN Report by ChrisDca
