United Way Highlights Year-Round Financial Help During Financial Literacy Month
UW offers free, confidential financial guidance year-round. This Financial Literacy Month, the organization is encouraging residents to start talking about money and take control of their finances.
November marks the 15th annual Financial Literacy Month in Canada, an initiative led by the Financial Consumer Agency of Canada. This year’s theme, “Talk Money,” encourages Canadians to have open and honest conversations about finances—something local advocates say can be life-changing.
Here in Bruce and Grey Counties, the United Way of Bruce Grey is reminding residents that its Financial Literacy Program runs year-round, offering free, confidential support to help individuals and households gain control over their financial lives.
The program helps people understand their income, manage expenses, deal with debt, and plan for their financial goals. Services are offered by phone, online, or in person.
In 2024, 297 households accessed the program. According to Caroline Araujo Abbotts, Financial Literacy Program Coordinator, the financial pressures people are facing today are acute.
“People aren’t living pay cheque to pay cheque anymore,” she said. “They’re living bill to bill. Talking to someone outside your family or circle can be a big relief. We focus on sharing useful, realistic information so people can make informed choices about their money.”
In addition to supporting individuals, the program also helps strengthen the broader community. Earlier this year, United Way hosted a budgeting workshop for local social service workers. One participant reflected, “Budgeting isn’t just about numbers. It’s about aligning spending with what truly matters.”
Program Overview
The Financial Literacy Program is open to anyone in Bruce or Grey Counties who is struggling to make ends meet or simply wants to improve their financial situation. Services include:
Basic budgeting support
Income-boosting advice
Referrals to local and provincial cost-saving programs
External referrals to credit counselling and bankruptcy services
How to Access Support
The program is available year-round, free of charge, and fully confidential. Residents can contact Caroline, the Financial Literacy Program Coordinator, directly:
Email: advice@unitedwaybg.com
Phone: 519-378-4773
For more information on Financial Literacy Month nationally, visit the Financial Consumer Agency of Canada at canada.ca/financial-literacy-month.
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