Programs That “Lift”

We focus our efforts on programs that help people overcome the obstacles they encounter in lifting themselves out of poverty. These programs directly address systemic barriers that keep people in poverty, provide some combination of the training, knowledge, connections, skills, services, attitudes and tools required to liberate themselves from cycles of poverty.

Getting Ahead – ‘Getting Ahead in a Just Getting by World’ meets weekly over 15 sessions to help you evaluate your life so you can develop the understanding and skills necessary to survive and flourish. To learn more, watch Kacey’s Story.

Circles® Muskoka – creates relationships across economic boundaries by matching people of low-income who have attended the Getting Ahead program with community volunteers who have attended Bridges out of Poverty training. Research suggests in order to help people out of poverty relationships need to exist within the wider community giving lower income families social networks to support and thrive. To learn more, watch Kacey’s Story.

Dec 6th Fund – This fund was established to provide interest free loans to help remove some of the financial barriers that prevent women from leaving abusive relationships. Since 2013, forty one women have received loans from the YWCA Muskoka’s December 6th Fund.

Note: The YWCA donations website provides a drop down for specific programs.

Habitat for Humanity Ontario Gateway North works to bring communities together to help vulnerable people build strength, stability, and independence through a safe, decent, and affordable place to call home.  Our vision is a world in which everyone has a safe and suitable place to live. “We build strength, stability and self reliance.” To learn more, watch Jim’s Story.

BBBS – Potential. It exists in every kid. Yet many children and youth struggle with societal barriers and face adversities such as poverty, family instability, and identity-based discrimination. These adversities can negatively impact a young person’s future, limiting their opportunity to reach their potential. With Big Brothers Big Sisters of Muskoka’s mentoring, we have the chance to improve outcomes and change lives. To learn more, watch Kevin’s Story.

Eve and Peter Willis are residents of Oakville and Muskoka and wanted to establish a Bursary which assisted RAMP with its Vision and Mission. As a result, in 2021, they partnered with The Muskoka Community Foundation to create the Peter and Eve Willis Bursary Fund.   The fund will support Muskoka high school graduates each year who enter a full-time one year trades program at a publicly funded college or trade school with the goal of obtaining a diploma or certificate. To learn more, watch Martha & Zack’s Story.

At YMCA Employment and Learning Services, we know that in Canada, 46% of adults at the lowest literacy levels live in low income households. Our Job coaches can connect people with a variety of community supports, from housing needs, food supports, mental health services, financial supports, and training opportunities. Our goal is to help people find a job, improve their situation, and reach their full potential.  

The Huntsville CAP Debt Centre is a partnership between Christians Against Poverty (CAP) Canada and Faith Baptist Church.  For people weighed down by debt the Debt Centre provides hope and a solution at no cost to clients.  The Huntsville CAP Debt Centre is authorized to serve people living within 25km of Faith Baptist Church.

The CAP Money Course equips people with the tools and teaching to take control of their finances – how to budget and manage money to avoid drowning in debt.  The Money Course is offered multiple times a year in Huntsville at Faith Baptist Church and at the Annex at the Public Library.

Gravenhurst Against Poverty (G.A.P.) is a registered charity with ‘pillars’ of support within the community. These include providing essential transportation and fostering wellness with a focus on promoting mental well-being and community wholeness. Wellness support is provided through Community Kitchen cooking classes, a GAP Garden program and a young adult (YAC) program. G.A.P. is part of Coldest Night of the Year, an annual walk to raise funds for local charities.

Muskoka Lakes Public Library and Bracebridge Public Library function as community hubs. They provide services which are crucial for our vulnerable residents.  Many live without any, or very limited internet connection. These libraries provide free membership, reference services, computer use, wi-fi, and children and adult programs.

Support Muskoka Businesses That “Lift”By Paying A Living Wage

If you work, you should be able to make ends meet where you live. This is the idea at the core of the living wage movement. The Ontario Living Wage Network oversees local calculations and certifies employers who pay all their workers at least a living wage, and has been active in Muskoka since 2016. 
Unlike the minimum wage, a living wage is a calculation that accounts for local expenses such as shelter costs, transportation, food, and childcare.

Please check back periodically as we continue to do research for more programs.

Please contact us if you have suggestions.  RAMP will conduct a responsible evaluation of the programs success.