Apply for Funding

United Way Sault Ste. Marie & Algoma District has taken a close look at how we invest in the community and how we can make the most impact. As needs continue to change, we know our funding model must also adapt. Our goal is to make funding more flexible, more accessible, and better aligned with the realities of local organizations.


We are focusing our investments in three key areas that will drive lasting impact. When applying for funding, organizations are asked to carefully consider which focus area best matches their work, and to complete their application with clear objectives, expected outcomes, and measures of success.

Helping Kids Be All That They Can Be

Resilience in children and youth through emotional wellbeing, because we know that helping to prevent and
mitigate adverse childhood experiences is both urgent and foundational to lifelong potential

BUILDING HEALTHY COMMUNITIES

Belonging, inclusion, and connection to supports in community, because we know
that isolation, mental health, and informal and formal supports continue to be critical needs

FROM POVERTY TO POSSIBILITY

Aligned collaborative supports for food, housing, and financial security, because we know individuals

and families need comprehensive opportunities to stabilize, recover, and build their futures

DISTRICT GRANTS

When people in the Algoma District give to United Way, their donations stay local. Through the District Grants Program, these contributions are directed to registered charities in district communities, ensuring that donor dollars strengthen the places where they are raised.


The program provides funding for initiatives that align with United Way’s three focus areas: Helping Kids Be All They Can Be, Moving People from Poverty to Possibility, and Building Strong Communities. By supporting these areas, District Grants help address local priorities, meet urgent needs, and create opportunities for long-term change.


Organizations serving communities across Algoma are encouraged to explore this opportunity and apply for funding when the program is open. Together, we can make sure that every community in our district has the resources it needs to thrive.


For more information about funding opportunities in Sault Ste. Marie, please contact:


 Lori Huston, Executive Director
📧 lhuston@uwssmalgoma.ca
?? 705-256-7476 ext. 201


SAULT STE. MARIE FUNDING

In Sault Ste. Marie, donations are invested directly into initiatives that benefit our community. United Way Sault Ste. Marie & Algoma District works closely with local partners to tackle poverty and other challenges that affect individuals and families.


Through focused strategies in our three core areas—Moving People from Poverty to Possibility, Helping Kids Be All They Can Be, and Building Strong Communities—we support programs that reduce the effects of low income and improve the well-being of residents across the city.


For more information about funding opportunities in Sault Ste. Marie, please contact:


 Lori Huston, Executive Director
📧 lhuston@uwssmalgoma.ca
📞 705-256-7476 ext. 201


To apply for Sault Ste. Marie Funding or the District Grants Program, please use the following resources:


Application Deadline: November 7, 2025

For more information or for questions regarding funding, please contact:


Lori Huston, Executive Director
lhuston@uwssmalgoma.ca

705-256-7476 x 201

INTERESTED IN FUNDING?

If you’re interested in learning more about funding opportunities with United Way Sault Ste. Marie & Algoma District, please complete the contact form below and a member of our team will get in touch with you.

Volunteer Opportunities

ROBERT (BOB) WILDING BURSARY

United Way Sault Ste. Marie & Algoma District is proud to offer the Robert (Bob) Wilding Bursary. A bursary program designed to support Sault College students who demonstrate financial need and a strong commitment to volunteerism.


Bob Wilding’s legacy lives on through his dedication to youth and community development. Over his 20 year tenure with United Way, Bob championed volunteerism and inspired many through his leadership on various boards and committees. Not only did he serve as a Board member, he was always willing to go over and above to ensure the community was being supported. In addition to his 20 years with United Way, he also served on the Sault College Board of Governors. Bob’s strategic thinking and dedication continue to inspire us to build a brighter future for all. 


Bursary Details:

  • Number of Bursaries: 1
  • Value: ($2,500 per year)
  • Duration: 2 years (2025/2026 and 2026/2027 academic years)
  • Institution: Sault College
  • Application Deadline: August 8th, 2025


Eligibility Criteria:

  • Be enrolled in a post-secondary program at Sault College
  • Demonstrate financial need and not receive other tuition assistance
  • Have a significant record of volunteer involvement
  • Meet one of the following:
  • Graduate from a secondary school in Sault Ste. Marie or the District of Algoma (Hornepayne to Spanish)
  • Be a returning student in 2nd or 3rd year at Sault College after graduating from a school in the Algoma District
  • Be a mature student who attended high school in the above region and currently resides within the Algoma District


How to Apply:

Submit your completed application form and required documents by email to: uwssm@uwssmalgoma.ca by Friday, August 8th, 2025.


Required Documents:

  • Completed Application Form
  • Personal Statement
  • A description of why you believe you should receive the Robert Wilding Bursary
  • Two letters of reference
  • Resume
  • Copy of Sault College Acceptance Letter


Please contact Rayna Evoy if you have any questions at 705-256-7476 x 206.

Apply Now