From coast to coast to coast, the United Way Centraide network is proudly celebrating Black History Month throughout February.

Black History Month is an annual opportunity to highlight the many contributions of Black leaders and communities in shaping Canada’s past, present, and future. But it’s also a critical time to draw attention to the persistent inequalities that continue to impact Black people and communities nationwide — including higher rates of poverty, discrimination, chronic diseases, and food insecurity.

As Canada’s unifying force for social change, United Way Centraide is deeply committed to addressing these challenges and creating a future where everyone thrives.

For example, United Way Greater Toronto (UWGT) is engaging in research, local advocacy, strategic leadership, and cross-sectoral partnerships to address systemic inequalities — including its 2024 collaboration with the Federation of Black Canadians to celebrate the International Decade of People of African Descent.

Centraide of Greater Montreal continues to be a key funder of the Bureau de la communauté haïtienne de Montréal (BCHM), an agency dedicated to uplifting the success and well-being of individuals and families within Montreal’s Haitian community — including guiding children and teenagers to adulthood with support from seniors.

Recognizing that rates of mental health challenges are higher among people from Black communities, United Way East Ontario is investing a unique mental health program delivered by the Somerset West Community Health Centre designed to meet the needs of Black residents.

And United Way of Calgary and Area’s Grassroots Empowerment Moh’kinstsis (GEM) supports seven Black-led grassroot organizations, including Wings of Hope for Africa, Iconic Community Healthcare, and Ruth’s House Society, to address the issues that directly impact their communities. This initiative — rooted in an anti-racism framework — is driving lasting change in Calgary and surrounding area.

The Black community in Metro Vancouver numbers around 40,000. Among them is Favour, a strong and resilient former youth in care now studying musical therapy at Douglas College. United Way BC Youth Futures Education Fund is helping her reach her post-secondary and life goals.

In communities nationwide, United Way Centraides are dedicated to advancing a future of equity and justice for everyone in Canada. We are proud to celebrate the histories, contributions, achievements, and potential of Black Canadians this month and every month. Learn more about Black History Month.