July 6, 2026
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New national data released by United Way Canada reveals a sharp increase in financial anxiety across the country, with 60 per cent of Canadians reporting anxiety when thinking about their personal finances.
The findings mirror what the United Way of Bruce Grey has been witnessing locally as more individuals and families struggle to keep up with the rising cost of housing, food, utilities, and other necessities.
According to the United Way Canada Financial Anxiety Index, conducted by Léger, nearly half of Canadians (46 per cent) say they could cover basic expenses for only one month or less before falling into debt if they lost their primary source of income. The report also found that 38 per cent are experiencing food insecurity and 40 per cent report losing sleep due to financial stress.
"These numbers reflect the reality we hear from people in Bruce and Grey counties every day," said Francesca Dobbyn, executive director of the United Way of Bruce Grey. "Many households are working hard, yet they are finding it increasingly difficult to afford essentials. Financial hardship is no longer limited to those traditionally considered low-income. More people are finding themselves one unexpected bill away from crisis."
The United Way of Bruce Grey has seen growing demand for assistance programs over the past several years. In 2024, the organization reported a significant increase in requests for support through its Utility Assistance Program, driven largely by the continued rise in living costs, housing pressures, and inflation.
In January and February of 2025, the United Way provided $5,500 in utility support. In 2026, it has provided $23,250 in support - an increase of over 300 per cent.
The challenges became so significant that agency recently announced a temporary pause on new Utility Assistance Program applications after funding allocated for the program was fully committed. The pause reflects both the growing need in the community and the limited resources available to meet that demand.
"Making the decision to pause applications was incredibly difficult," said Dobbyn. "It underscores how many people in our region are struggling to keep their heat on, pay their hydro bills, and maintain stable housing. The need continues to out-pace available resources."
Nearly three-out-of-four households using the program in 2026 are brand new to the program.
A United Way of Bruce Grey press release that went out earlier in 2026 on the high cost of living, highlighted many of the same concerns now reflected in the national survey. Residents reported making difficult choices about paying for groceries, transportation, medications, and utility payments as everyday expenses continued to climb.
Despite these challenges, the United Way of Bruce Grey continues to invest in programs that help residents navigate financial hardship, including emergency assistance, financial literacy initiatives, outreach supports, and community partnerships designed to strengthen long-term financial stability.
Local organizations, such as OSHaRE (Owen Sound Hunger and Relief Effort) are also experiencing the impact of rising financial pressures. OSHaRE is a grassroots, volunteer-driven charity, which provides community meals, food rescue programs, family meals, school lunches, and fresh-food distribution to individuals and families across the region. The organization reported a 55-per-cent increase in meals served between 2024 and 2025, providing more than 327,000 meals to the community in 2025, alone. This growing demand reflects the increasing number of residents turning to community supports to meet basic needs as the cost of living continues to rise.
The national report also highlights the importance of community supports, with 40 per cent of Canadians who accessed community organization services reporting a positive impact on their financial situation, and 36 per cent reporting reduced financial anxiety.
Residents seeking support can contact 211 Ontario by dialing 211 or visiting www.211ontario.ca to connect with local community, social, and government services.
The United Way encourages all members of the public to support the causes that matter most to them. Whether you choose to give to the United Way or another charity, your donation helps provide vital support to individuals and families facing challenges in local communities. Every contribution, big or small, can make a meaningful difference.
To learn more about the work of the United Way Bruce Grey and the impact of local giving, visit unitedwayofbrucegrey.com.
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