About Us
WHO WE ARE.
United Way Sault Ste. Marie & Algoma District plays a vital role in shaping a stronger, more connected community.
Through collaboration and compassion, we support a network of local programs and partners that create meaningful, lasting change.
For generations, United Way has been at the heart of our community, helping those who need it most and building hope for the future.
MISSION
To improve lives and mobilize collective action
VISION
Everyone in Sault Ste. Marie & Algoma District has the opportunity to reach their full potential.
OUR VALUES
Our History
United Way began as a simple idea: communities working together to meet local needs. The movement first took shape in the United States in 1887 and reached Canada in 1917, inspiring local leaders across the country. In Sault Ste. Marie, that vision came to life in 1956 with the creation of the Welfare Federation of Sault Ste. Marie, Korah and Tarentorus, established to coordinate community services and support agencies year-round.
Since 1957, our local United Way has carried this mission forward. What began as a federation has grown into United Way Sault Ste. Marie & Algoma District, serving communities across the region. We organize workplace campaigns and fundraising events, invest in social services, lead research and advocacy, and bring community partners together to create lasting change.
In 2016, we aligned our work with three of the five community pillars identified by the City of Sault Ste. Marie: Workforce Entry, Essential Services, and Food Security. As part of this shift, we launched Harvest Algoma, a community food resource centre designed to reduce food insecurity and strengthen local food systems. While Harvest Algoma has since transitioned to new ownership, we remain proud of the foundation we built and the role we played in shaping its success.
Today, our focus remains clear: reducing poverty and building a stronger, healthier community. We do this by supporting programs that help kids be all they can be, move people from poverty to possibility, and build strong communities.
