Meeting Local needs

United Ways across the nation are connecting people to free tax preparation offerings and helping filers get the tax credits for which they are eligible.

This Women's History Month, we celebrate the strides made in supporting women's journeys toward empowerment and self-sufficiency. United Way's interventions are a critical component of a broader mission to ensure health, education, and financial stability for all.

The collaboration between United Way and 211 is particularly significant in Olmsted County, where challenges such as housing insecurity, food scarcity, and financial assistance are prevalent. By maintaining an up-to-date database, United Way ensures that residents are connected with the resources necessary to navigate these issues effectively.

For me, Black History Month is so much more than a time of reflection, acknowledgement, and celebration of the contributions African Americans have made to the tapestry of America. I am continually learning about the journey that led us to become more than property and two-thirds of a person. I am expanding my understanding of the many ways we have cultivated the power of community to reach goals once considered out of reach. All too often we had little to no resources other than determination and God-given gifts to bring to the struggle.

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.