United with Pride

United Ways across the Maritimes are dedicated to fostering diverse, equitable, and inclusive communities. Speaking out during Pride Month year-round and participating in local Pride activities is a natural extension of this commitment, as it promotes the rights and visibility of 2SLGBTQIA+ people, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, feels included and valued in their community. 

Our mission is to improve lives and strengthen communities. Since 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals are an integral part of our communities, funding organizations that support the 2SLGBTQIA+ community connects to United Way’s broader goal of creating healthy, vibrant, and inclusive communities where everyone can thrive. 

How United Way Supports Vulnerable 2SLGBTQIA+ Communities Facing Discrimination, Mental Health Issues, and Homelessness 

2SLGBTQIA+ individuals often face unique challenges and vulnerabilities, including higher rates of discrimination, mental health issues, and homelessness. 2SLGBTQIA+ Canadians were twice as likely as their non-2SLGBTQIA+ counterparts to have experienced some type of homelessness or housing insecurity in their lifetime (Stats Can). This vulnerability is compounded when someone is part of another population that is more likely to experience poverty or marginalization in addition to being a member of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. These groups include youth, seniors, Indigenous people, newcomers, or people with mental health or addiction issues.

Through funding, collaboration, and advocacy we support housing initiatives for marginalized and at-risk groups. This includes programs and supports such as emergency housing and shelter, transitional housing programs, affordable housing, youth housing, and wrap-around supports and services to provide those experiencing homelessness with a path forward.

Addressing Unique Challenges

2SLGBTQIA+ individuals, particularly youth, are at a higher risk for mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation. 2SLGBTQIA+ Canadians under the age of 18 were more likely than their heterosexual counterparts to report that they consider their mental health to be poor or fair -32% versus 11% (Stats Can).

This elevated risk is often due to factors such as discrimination, family rejection, social isolation, and experiences of violence. We acknowledge these challenges and we are dedicated to addressing them through mental health initiatives such as partnering and funding mental health organizations and agencies to provide accessible mental health supports, programs, peer support groups, crisis intervention and support lines, youth-centered programs, education and training programs, advocacy and awareness to reduce the stigma of mental health in the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.

We’re committed to a collaborative approach with local agencies, government and community to support the issues most pressing to the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. Through advocacy and supporting programs that provide crucial support and resources to 2SLGBTQIA+ and other marginalized communities, United Way continues its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, while actively contributing to creating more inclusive and supportive communities for everyone.

“United Way Prince Edward Island has been an exceptional funder and community partner to PEERS Alliance. Their support has enabled us to expand our programs island-wide, reaching more individuals and making a significant impact. With the continued support of United Way, our organization has been able to meet the needs of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community on PEI, even in unexpected and strenuous circumstances, such as the aftermath of Hurricane Fiona in 2022. We are incredibly grateful for United Way’s partnership and ongoing support of our organization’s mission and values.”

–Rachel Bartlett, Youth Program Coordinator, PEERS Alliance

What can you do to support the 2SLGBTQIA+ community all year long? 

Here are three things you can do to support the 2SLGBTQIA+ community all year long: 

• Attend local pride events like flag raisings and pride parades.

• Educate yourself and others about the unique challenges faced by the  2SLGBTQIA+ community.

• Follow United Way on social media, share our posts, and join the conversation year-round.

By supporting local organizations that serve the 2SLGBTQIA+ community and participating in local Pride initiatives, United Way can help address these issues, advocating for and supporting programs that provide crucial support and resources to 2SLGBTQIA+ communities.