New national data released by United Way Canada reveals a sharp increase in financial anxiety across the country, with 60% of Canadians reporting anxiety when thinking about their personal finances. The findings mirror what United Way of Bruce Grey has been witnessing locally as more individuals and families struggle to keep up with the rising costs of housing, food, utilities, and other necessities.

According to the United Way Canada Financial Anxiety Index, conducted by Léger.  nearly half of Canadians (46%) 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% are experiencing food insecurity and 40% 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 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.”

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, we’ve provided $23,250 in support. That’s an increase of over 300%

The challenges became so significant that United Way of Bruce Grey 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,” added 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 outpace available resources.”

Nearly 3 out of 4 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 between groceries, transportation, medications, and utility payments as everyday expenses continued to climb.

Despite these challenges, 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% increase in meals served between 2024 and 2025, providing more than 327,000 meals to the community in 2025 alone. Their 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% of Canadians who accessed community organization services reporting a positive impact on their financial situation and 36% reporting reduced financial anxiety.

Residents seeking support can contact 211 Ontario by dialing 2-1-1 or visiting www.211ontario.ca to connect with local community, social, and government services.

The United Way encourages everyone to support the causes that matter most to them. Whether you choose to give to United Way or another charity, your donation helps provide vital support to individuals and families facing challenges in our communities. Every contribution, big or small, can make a meaningful difference. To learn more about the work of United Way Bruce Grey and the impact of local giving, visit https://unitedwayofbrucegrey.com/.

Related: What some people are doing to survive the cost of living crisis in Canada