Strengthening Community Connections: MLA Breakfast with United Way BC

Partnerships lie at the core of United Way BC’s support for British Columbia’s citizens and communities. Our collaboration with the Government of BC enhances and complements the dedication of our donors, volunteers, and community-based agencies. 

That’s why United Way BC proudly hosted its inaugural MLA breakfast at the Victoria Conference Centre on Monday, May 13, 2024. 

This gathering provided incumbent MLAs with insights into how United Way BC and our extensive network of supporters and community partners tackle complex social issues and foster essential connections in BC communities. 

“When trying times hit, such as wildfires, floods, or pandemics, we can draw upon the strength of our community connections. This is truly the essence of what United Way BC stands for. It’s about fostering the capacity, commitment, and passion for our work within the community,” said Michael McKnight, President & CEO of United Way BC. “Many of the initiatives we undertake would not be possible without the support of our government partners.” 

It’s crucial to acknowledge the collaborative efforts that bridge government initiatives with the invaluable services provided by community organizations. 

United Way BC deeply values its partnership with the Government of BC, working together to deliver impactful programs for British Columbians, ensuring equitable access to vital services. 

We were honored to have BC’s Minister of Health, Adrian Dix, as a speaker at the event, and we appreciate the Government of BC’s ongoing commitment to reducing seniors’ isolation and enhancing the quality of life for older British Columbians and their communities. 

“On behalf of all my colleagues in the legislature today, we just want to say thank you to United Way BC for how important their partnership is. I believe these investments mean a great deal to hundreds of thousands of people in BC, particularly for seniors. In a time where we have to rebuild and break down the isolation felt in communities, United Way BC is such a big part of that,” Dix said. 

The Ministry of Health’s investment in the Better at Home program exemplifies the success of strong partnerships between government and the social service sector. The program provides assistance to seniors with day-to-day tasks like housekeeping and yardwork.

BC’s Minister of Social Development and Poverty Reduction, Sheila Malcolmson, also addressed the crowd, speaking to the Government of BC’s work with United Way BC to establish food hubs around the province, as well as build out food security infrastructure like refrigerator trucks and warehouses.  

“I am grateful through my Ministry to be working with United Way BC on some of the forward-looking infrastructure issues around food security that can build resiliency and people’s connection to food,” Malcolmson said. 

Here are examples of how partnerships between United Way BC and the Government of BC are improving the lives of more than 4 million British Columbians. 

Helpline Services

Connecting British Columbians to vital resources in their community  

• 211 British Columbia offers free, confidential 24/7 support in over 240 languages. Since April 2023, 211 calls have increased by 19 percent. The average call duration is 9 minutes due to the complexities of needs, with housing, health, financial assistance, and mental health being the top reasons for calling.   
• Government-funded referral lines include Alcohol & Drug, Gambling Support, Youth Against Violence, and VictimLink BC, helping citizens in times of need. A new Racist Incident Helpline will be added this year.

Children & Youth Initiatives

Helping kids and youth reach their full potential

• United Way BC’s initiatives for children and youth are dedicated to empowering the next generation, fostering their journey into adulthood, and striving to level the playing field for those facing early challenges in life.  
• Helping kids feel safe and supported is the goal of our School’s Out program.
• The Future Leaders program offers work experience and educational support for youth aged 15-29, fostering leadership and equality.  

Emergency Response

In times of crisis, we’re here to lend a hand 

• United Way BC coordinates community efforts and partners with agencies, governments, and volunteers to address the complex needs of communities in times of crisis.  
• During the 2021 Fraser Valley floods and 2023 wildfires in the Interior and Okanagan, United Way BC mobilized resources, including shelter, food, and mental health support, demonstrating effective community response and solidarity.  

Food Security Initiatives

Helping British Columbians access healthy, nutritious, and culturally preferable food 

• Tackling food insecurity is a top priority for United Way BC, just as it is for the Government of BC. This partnership means there are dynamic Regional Community Food Hubs in many communities across the province.
• We collaborate with partners in communities to increase access to healthy food options, track food needs, and co-create local solutions.   
• Food Infrastructure Grants fund initiatives to improve access to nutritious foods, promote community resilience, and increase climate adaptiveness in local food systems.  

Healthy Aging programs

Supporting older adults to stay in their homes, remaining active, connected, and engaged

• United Way BC’s Healthy Aging initiative, funded by the Government of BC, addresses social isolation and loneliness prevalent among Canadians aged 50 and older.
• 37,000 seniors were helped last year through province-wide grants and initiatives like Better at Home, Family & Friend Caregiver Supports, Social Prescribing and Therapeutic Activation Programs for Seniors (TAPS), fostering independence, social engagement, and overall well-being.  
  

Addressing social issues and implementing solutions require collaboration. We extend our gratitude to all attendees who joined us in acknowledging the meaningful work of our partners – individual and corporate donors, non-profits, labor, government, and volunteers – in fostering connected and resilient communities. 

Together, we are United for People in Need.