The Niagara Prosperity Initiative (NPI) uses a neighbourhood-based approach to addressing poverty with the understanding that the nature and degree of poverty varies from neighbourhood to neighbourhood.

Since 2008, NPI seeks to build strong communities to ease the enduring impacts of poverty and the stigma and stress associated with living in poverty. Stronger and healthier communities will provide individuals with social supports and access to the broader factors that affect health.

How Does NPI Build Strong Communities?

During the past 6 years Niagara Region, through the NPI, has funded more than 230 projects delivered by more than 60 community agencies. Feedback from Niagara residents helped by NPI projects indicates the strategy is making a substantial difference in the lives of individuals. As well, the NPI is evaluated based on the improvements in assets in 5 key areas. NPI Project Investments increase assets in these key areas:

  • Personal Assets – inner resources such as improving self-esteem and self-confidence
  • Physical Assets – basic material goods and services such as food, shelter, transportation and child care
  • Social Assets – relationships and networks
  • Human Assets – skills, knowledge, education and health
  • Financial Assets – income, savings and sources of financial security

Between 2008-2013 NPI projects have served 72,553 people in the following areas:

  • Assistance with Shelter
  • Research / Education
  • Transportation Initiatives
  • Job Specific Skills Training
  • Personal Needs
  • Community Gardens
  • Back-to-School Programs
  • Life Skills Programs for Adults
  • Access to Food
  • Community Networks Development
  • Educational Programs for children/youth

2015 Request for Proposals

Proposals are invited from the community for projects that will provide an effective service to address poverty at a neighbourhood level for residents of the Niagara region.

Applications will be available online from February 23, 2015 – March 20, 2015.

Please join us for an information session on Monday, February 23, 2015 from 2:30 – 4:00 p.m. at the MacBain Community Centre, Coronation Room, Niagara Falls.

We look forward to reading your proposals and working together to address the root causes of poverty.

If you have any questions, please contact me.

 

Natalie Chaumont

Program Manager, Niagara Prosperity Initiative

United Way Niagara Falls and Greater Fort Erie

Natalie.Chaumont@unitedwayniagara.org

 

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