Meeting Local needs

the You Belong Book Project continues as an evergreen resource for families, with new videos each quarter and spotlights of past videos commemorating Black History Month and beyond. The project also offers on-demand book drive lists for partners wishing to include promoting culturally relevant reading as part of their community engagement and impact.

In recent times, we've all witnessed an unprecedented surge in the cost of living, significantly impacting essentials such as groceries, fuel, utilities, rent, childcare, and healthcare. These rising expenses have placed a considerable strain on households across our community, with the average family now spending $400 more per month than just a year ago. Amid these challenging times, wages for many have not kept pace with inflation, underscoring a critical need for support.

In 2023, hundreds of thousands of Americans reached out to Mass211 seeking assistance with childcare, financial payments, utility payments, emergency shelter, food security, winter storm damage, and mental health and suicide prevention services. Their housing line addressed over 50,000 calls from individuals at risk of eviction, and their childcare line helped over 45,000 families return to work.

These stories of resilience, recovery, and empowerment highlight United Way India's significant impact in disaster-stricken areas. The organization's interventions have not only addressed immediate needs but have also contributed to the long-term sustainability and resilience of communities.

In July 2023, Uttarakhand faced an unprecedented natural disaster. Heavy rains triggered devastating landslides and floods, particularly in Chamoli district, leaving villages isolated, homes destroyed, and essential goods scarce. In a swift humanitarian response United Way India initiated a critical relief operation under the Swahar initiative, aiming to reach the most vulnerable families with immediate aid.

United Way Worldwide has joined a collection of national nonprofit partners to send this letter to Congressional leadership urging the U.S. House and Senate to provide continued funding for the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)