The challenge

Toronto is the most expensive place to live in Canada. The pandemic has intensified income inequality, hitting lower-wage workers the hardest. Frontline and service workers, and those in the gig economy, are experiencing job disruption or loss at unprecedented rates. As the cost of living continues to soar, necessities such as food and housing are becoming less affordable and pushing low-income families into crisis. Recent studies show that more than half of Canadians are within $200 of not being able to make their monthly bills and debt payments, while 26% may soon require charitable services to meet basic needs.

 

How WoodGreen helps

WoodGreen’s financial empowerment programs help low-income families and individuals navigate financial challenges. About 80% of the clients we see are already in a crisis situation with their finances. Fortunately, our team of social workers have years of experience helping people struggling to make ends meet. We provide one-on-one counselling and informative workshops to support with budgeting, reducing debt, increasing savings and improving credit ratings.

Our free income tax clinics also help clients file their taxes and access valuable benefits and subsidies. An important pathway to financial independence is stable employment. Our team works with job seekers to pursue their career goals through employment counselling, skill-building workshops, specialized training and job placement strategies. We also offer a range of programs specifically designed for youth, people with disabilities, newcomers and mature workers. Through partnerships with service providers and employers, we connect clients with opportunities to achieve financial security for themselves and their families.

Donate