United Way of Washtenaw County has invested $100k in building programs that create financial stability.

Editor & Publisher Jeff Brown.

According to a July 26 press release, United of Washtenaw County today announced its investment of $100,000 in local programs to increase the financial stability of women, individuals and families with low incomes, and communities of color. The organization is awarding 12-month grants to six nonprofit agencies. Funded agencies will provide a variety of supports including free tax preparation, financial coaching, transportation, job placement, and literacy tutoring.

 According to the release received by Purple Walrus Press, “In Washtenaw County, a gap persists between those who are financially secure, and those who are living on the brink,” shared Mitzi Falon, previous Power of the Purse Chair. “Although one of the most affluent counties in Michigan -- One in five Washtenaw County households (22%) do not have sufficient net worth to subsist at the poverty level for three months in the absence of income.

This fund was augmented by $25,000 in proceeds from United Way’s annual Power of the Purse event.

Funded programs will advance one or more of the following goals of United Way’s Financial Stability Initiative:

·       Advance the economic well-being of individuals and families with low incomes

·       Reduce reliance on predatory financial practices in Washtenaw County neighborhoods.

·       Improve the economic wellbeing of women who are Asset-Limited, Income Constrained and Employed (ALICE).

“Thank you to each and every donor that contributes to United Way’s efforts to build a thriving community for everyone. These grant funded programs are helping people increase their financial ability and self-sufficiency,” shared Pam Smith, President and CEO.

To review all investments during FY17-18, visit uwgive.org/grants 

ABOUT UNITED WAY’S FINANCIAL STABILITY INVESTMENTS

Financial stability grants provide support for efforts that prioritize women, individuals and families with low incomes, communities of color, and historically and/or systematically marginalized groups. Funding is open to both new/pilot or existing programs, projects or initiatives. 

ABOUT UNITED WAY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY

As part of our 96-year history, the United Way of Washtenaw County brings people, organizations and resources together to create a thriving community for everyone. Our focus areas of Health, Education and Financial Stability provide the building blocks to strengthen the community and create opportunities for individuals and families. Our Volunteer Center provides an easy online way for people to connect with nonprofits in the community and our 2-1-1 helpline refers more than 8,000 people annually to critically needed services. To learn more, donate, or volunteer, visit uwgive.org.