United Is the Way
United Way of Hancock County helps neighbors strengthen their resilience by advancing resources and opportunities for children, families and individuals.
We don’t just focus on one area of need, because life doesn’t work like that. By taking a more comprehensive approach, we bring together resources, partners and hope to help people find their footing again. It’s about the family who finally has food on the table and a safe place to call home. The child who doesn’t go hungry on the weekends when school isn’t in session because they’ve been sent home with backpack meals. Or the senior who can live independently thanks to low-cost rides.
Our three initiatives – the Financial Stability Initiative, Halt Hunger Initiative and the Vulnerable Children Initiative – were designed to help more families access the support they need to become more stable and build a brighter future.
Financial Stability Initiative
Across Hancock County, many hardworking families are employed and contributing to the local economy but still struggle to cover basic needs like childcare, housing, transportation, food and healthcare.
These households are often referred to as ALICE, or Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed. They earn more than the federal poverty level but not enough to keep up with the true cost of living. For these families, a single unexpected expense or emergency — such as a car repair, medical bill or sudden loss of income — can quickly push them into financial crisis.
Our Financial Stability Initiative focuses on practical supports that help ALICE families stay employed, keep more of what they earn and access essential services. Financial stability is built by addressing real-life barriers that can quickly derail a household budget.
Halt Hunger Initiative
Our Halt Hunger Initiative focuses on ensuring that individuals and families across Hancock County have reliable access to nutritious food.
Hunger affects health, education and financial stability, and no single organization can address it alone. Through this initiative, we invest in programs and partnerships that meet immediate food needs while also strengthening the local food system for the long term.
By supporting food providers, expanding access to food assistance and promoting sustainable solutions, the Halt Hunger Initiative works to reduce food insecurity and build a healthier, more resilient community.
Vulnerable Children Initiative
Our Vulnerable Children Initiative focuses on ensuring that children in Hancock County are safe, supported and given the opportunity to thrive. Every child deserves stability, care and the chance to reach their full potential, regardless of the challenges they face at home, in school or in their community.
Through this initiative, we support programs and partnerships that address basic needs, protect children from harm, strengthen families and provide opportunities for learning, mentorship and personal growth. This work is rooted in the belief that our kids matter and that no child should be left behind.
Local nonprofits, government agencies, schools and child advocates work year-round to prevent harm, respond to crisis and support children and families through complex challenges. This work depends on strong collaboration and on caring adults who are willing to give their time, talents and resources to ensure children do not lose hope or a vision for their future.