Are you going through a life change, looking for more stability, or hoping to build a brighter future?
Our free program (for women and those who identify as women) is here to help you:
- Build life skills
- Learn practical financial literacy tools to manage your money
- Get employment ready and explore career pathways
- Navigate community systems and services with support
- Focus on your wellness so you can move forward feeling balanced and strong
- Program includes a completion benefit for those who meet program requirements.
We’re here to break down barriers together — so you can move forward feeling empowered, informed, and ready to thrive.
Join us and take the next step toward financial independence and a stronger, more confident you! We’re here to help YOU turn transition into transformation!
Map to Independence: From Financial Violence to Financial Empowerment is a 12-week program held three days a week in St. Thomas, ON, designed to support individuals experiencing poverty in building the personal and community resources needed for long-term success. The program guides participants through a process of reflection, learning, and planning to help them understand the impact of poverty on their lives, families, and communities. It combines practical knowledge with personal growth strategies to foster financial stability and a stronger sense of self-direction.
This upcoming session offers those 16 and over who are women and those who identify as women the opportunity to examine their current situations, explore new information, and create personalized plans for a more secure future. The program will encompass essential financial literacy topics such as budgeting, understanding assets and liabilities, and building credit independently. Participants will also take part in empowerment activities that help them recognize their strengths and step confidently into their potential.
At the core of Map to Independence is a “kitchen table” approach, where participants act as investigators driving their own learning journey. Facilitators provide guidance and encouragement in a safe and supportive environment that values each person’s experiences and goals. Through this collaborative process, individuals gain not only tools for financial stability but also the confidence and connections to move toward lasting independence.
Next Session: September 8 – December 2, 2026 (not including Labour Day)
Monday – Wednesday from 10am – 12pm
Click here to complete the registration/referral form
For more information contact please contact Sarah Lounsbury or Barb Johnson (519) 631-9800
“The instructors at map to independence are very down to earth and relatable. They are so supportive and helpful. I love the discussions we have all together as a class because we share ideas and perspectives. It’s broadened my mindset. People are coming from diverse backgrounds and sharing their insights. I also love the activities and guest speakers. The speakers have been so inspiring, and I’ve made good connections. This has been a safe space for people to open up and connect with each other. So many great takeaways from this program. I highly recommend it.”
“Take back your future- you deserve one filled with hope. At the YWCA Map to Independence Program, you will find a caring, supportive community that is ready to walk alongside you every step of the way.”
“I started this group feeling very alone. I didn’t have much to offer myself or others. I am ending this amazing experience with not only amazing and unexpected friends, but I also get to take with me wonderful resources I have learned about and great memories of all the cool things I got to do. I enjoyed every minute of this program- and it moved by faster than I could have expected!”