United Way of Central and Northeastern Connecticut Invests More Than $6.6 Million in Local Communities

Hartford, Conn. (August 26, 2020) —United Way of Central and Northwestern Connecticut mobilized its donors, advocates and volunteers to quickly respond to the unprecedented needs created by the COVID-19 pandemic. More than $6.6 million has been awarded to organizations to provide academic support for children and youth, and workforce development and financial management programs for adults. Funding has also been provided to connect people to health services and to ensure access to immediate, emergency services such as food and shelter.  

“As parents and caregivers navigate uncertainties around the upcoming school year and financial hardship continues to be prevalent, we must ensure that we keep children learning, connect adults to jobs, and meet the immediate needs of families,” said Paula S. Gilberto, President and CEO, United Way of Central and Northeastern Connecticut. “With the support of individual donors, workplace campaigns and philanthropic partners, we’re able to respond quickly to the growing needs of people in our region.” 

Of the $6,689,900: 

• $572,000 was awarded through United Way’s emergency response fund, Neighbors in Need, providing immediate assistance to nearly 7,800 people impacted by COVID-19. Awards were made in April, May and June to a total of 46 community–based agencies providing individuals with food, utility assistance, housing and employment supports and to provide agencies with personal protection equipment and other health resources needed to provide services; 
• $292,400 was awarded to eight community partners focused on summer learning for children and youth; and,  
• $5,825,500 was awarded to 47 nonprofit organizations for year-round services, beginning July 1, that support academic and social-emotional learning for children and youth; workforce development and financial stability services for adults; access to health services; and, basic needs. 

About United Way of Central and Northeastern Connecticut 

United Way of Central and Northeastern Connecticut’s vision is a community where opportunities are available for every child to succeed in school and for every family to achieve financial security. United Way brings people and resources together to address immediate needs and finds long-term solutions to challenging problems. United Way does this by investing in programs and services, leading community change initiatives, and mobilizing resources and volunteers to ensure that: children succeed in school; people get jobs and are financially secure; people are healthy; and, basic needs are met during tough times. For more information, visit www.unitedwayinc.org.