Literacy

Literacy is the foundation for learning, work, and everyday life.

Literacy matters to everyone.

1 in 5 Canadian adults struggles with reading.
Most never tell anyone.

Literacy is at the heart of everyday life. It helps us find a job, support our children’s learning, understand a prescription, complete a form, manage our finances, and participate fully in our communities. Strong literacy skills create opportunities at every stage of life.

It Affects More People Than You Might Think

Literacy is about much more than reading books. Among many things, it means understanding a bill, following a recipe, helping your child with homework, completing an online application, or responding to an email at work.

Literacy challenges affect people of all ages and backgrounds from every region across Canada. These adversities are not the fault of the person. They can result from gaps in education, learning differences, life circumstances, interruptions in schooling, or learning English or French later in life.

The good news is that literacy skills can be strengthened at any age. With the right support, it is never too late to learn.

1 in 5

adults in Canada (about 19%)

struggle with basic reading and writing tasks

+1 million

children in Canada

are not reading at their expected grade level

+$67 billion

The amount a 1% increase

in adult literacy could generate annually for the Canadian economy

How Literacy Changes Lives

Across Canada, many people face barriers to developing literacy skills. These challenges can result from gaps in education, life circumstances, learning a new language, or not having access to the right support. Many people struggle silently because of the stigma and assumptions made by others.

The good news is that literacy skills can be strengthened at any stage of life. With the right support and learning opportunities, people can build confidence, achieve their goals, and participate more fully in society.

Why Choose United for Literacy?

We offer free literacy support through:

  • Accessible programs

    Online and in-person learning opportunities are available for children, youth, adults, and families across Canada.

  • Essential skills for life

    We offer support with reading, writing, numeracy, digital literacy, financial literacy, and English or French language learning.

  • Programs shaped by local needs

    We work with local partners to ensure programs respond to learners and the places they live.

  • Support beyond the classroom

    By including wrap-around supports such as healthy snacks, transportation assistance, job referrals, and more, our programs help to remove barriers to learning.

Types of Literacy

Literacy Takes Many Forms

Different situations require different skills. Literacy is more than reading and writing. It also includes having the knowledge and confidence to navigate the diverse needs of everyday life.

  • Financial Literacy

    Understanding budgets, contracts, banking, and your rights so you can make informed financial decisions.

    About Financial Literacy

  • Digital Literacy

    Using technology confidently, navigating online safely, accessing government services, and communicating through digital tools.

  • Workplace Literacy

    Reading instructions, completing workplace documents, communicating effectively with colleagues, and developing career skills.

  • Civic Literacy

    Reading instructions, completing workplace documents, communicating effectively with colleagues, and developing career skills.

  • Economic Literacy

    Understanding how the economy, markets, and public policies influence everyday life and personal financial decisions.

  • Children and Youth Literacy

    Building strong reading, writing, and communication skills from an early age at home, at school, and in the community.

  • Legal Literacy

    Understanding legal information, knowing your rights, navigating legal processes, and making informed decisions.

    About Legal Literacy

Testimonials

The Difference It Makes

  • “Thank you for providing this program. I had a very positive experience and learned a lot. My tutor was supportive, patient, and encouraging throughout the program. I felt welcomed, respected, and accepted. I appreciate the effort of everyone involved in making this program successful. If I could speak to the funders, I would thank them for supporting programs like this because they make a real difference in people’s lives and help participants build confidence and new skills.”

    Adult, MCAF Digital Literacy: Microsoft Office and Open Source Tools

    Fredericton

  • “You are the best. No doubt about it. You have helped me in so many ways and built my self confidence in all that I do and the way I communicate.”

    Kevin

    Terrace Bay 

Explore Our Programs

Discover how we support learners of all ages through free literacy programs across Canada.

Explore Our Programs