1 in 4 Calgarians struggling to meet basic needs, United Way says

As charities around the world celebrate Giving Tuesday, a local non-profit says a quarter of all Calgarians are struggling to make ends meet.

Yvette Biggs, vice-president of marketing and communications for United Way Calgary and Area, told CBC News the organization is seeing fewer people donating, but those who do end up giving more.

That's in line with data from the CanadaHelps 2024 Giving Report, which found that more dollars are being donated by fewer people to charities across the country, and the number of donations continues to decline.

According to the Giving Report, tax data shows that about 22 per cent of Canadians claimed charitable donations on their income tax in 2013, but by 2021, that figure had dropped to less than 18 per cent.

"The affordability crisis has impacted everyone, so we're really wanting to make sure that if you can give, any donation helps large or small," Biggs said.

"One in four Calgarians right now are really struggling to meet their basic needs."

She said nearly half of Albertans are only $200 away from being unable to meet their financial responsibilities, which includes housing and food costs. She called for more people to donate.

"We also know that demand right now is outpacing supply … we are able to support 134 agencies, but we're only able to support agencies as people are able to give," Biggs said.

In celebration of Giving Tuesday, the United Way loaded 300 backpacks with winter essentials for people in need at The Alex Community Food Centre.

Karen Young, president and CEO of United Way of Calgary and Area, said Giving Tuesday is a time to bring hope and relief to families who may need support. 

"Every donation helps, ensuring no one in our community has to face challenges alone, whether during the holidays or any time throughout the year," Young said.

The charity is matching eligible first-time donations over a certain amount until the end of the year to incentivize more people to give.