Rochester – The United Way of Southeast Minnesota Board of Directors recently approved $1.1 million in funding for 41 programs across Olmsted, Dodge, and Winona Counties. United Way's investments respond to the greatest needs in our region to support health, opportunity for local young people, financial security, and resiliency across our region. The programs receiving funding are listed below.
Each year, United Way’s investments in our community strengthen our region’s nonprofit sector and the communities they support. Alongside grant funding, United Way holistically supports grantees with program evaluation, sharing impact stories, volunteer recruitment, and resource connection.
“Together, United Way staff and our partners touch the lives of thousands of people across our region. The interconnectedness and commitment to partnership we all show day in and day out will be the key to improving lives across our community.” said Grace Pesch, United Way of Southeast Minnesota’s Vice President of Community Impact.
These investments are being made as we all continue to experience a cost-of-living crisis.
Research by United for ALICE indicates that 35% of households in our region are living paycheck-to-paycheck. Data from United Way’s 211 resource and information line indicates an increasing need for housing support, food assistance, and other essentials.
United Way works collectively to have the greatest community impact. Increasing access to basic needs by investing in our local nonprofit partners helps to improve people’s lives and create a stronger community in Southeast Minnesota.
For 100 years, every grant we’ve made has started the same way — with someone choosing to give. These voluntary donations are the foundation of our impact, and they continue to shape a stronger Southeast Minnesota for the next century.
“At United Way, we understand that no single organization can meet every individual’s needs,” said Jerome Ferson, President of United Way of Southeast Minnesota. “Investing in a variety of local programs to ensure that basic services are available is just one step to creating a community where all people can thrive. Together, we can make Southeast Minnesota an even better place to live, work, and raise a family.”
