Giving Hearts Day Is Here: United Is the Way We Build Brighter Futures for Kids in Need

Kids can’t focus on reading, math, or friendships when they’re hungry, stressed, or worried about where they’ll sleep. That’s why United Way invests in solutions that meet families’ basic needs first—so kids can truly thrive.

Your Giving Hearts Day gift supports programs that provide:

• Nutritious food so kids can show up to school ready to learn
• Safe, stable housing to keep kids in the same school and routines
• Early learning and preschool opportunities when 90% of brain development happens
• Mental health and social-emotional support to help kids manage stress and build confidence

Because of supporters like you, last year:

• Nearly 36,000 families received access to nutritious food
• 10,000+ children were screened for hunger during health care visits
• 2,763 people were prevented from becoming homeless—and 85% maintained stable housing
• 96% of children in United Way-funded programs entered kindergarten socially, emotionally, and academically ready

This is how United Way moves beyond one-time help to create lasting stability for families.

👉 Meet Emma & Leo—give today to support more families like theirs.
Give on Giving Hearts Day

United Is the Way Emma and Leo Have a Brighter Future

Last year, Emma, a third grader, and her little brother Leo faced homelessness with their mom. Every day felt uncertain. Emma struggled to focus on school, and Leo just wanted a safe place to play and feel secure.

Everything changed when their family was connected to resources supported by United Way.

With help from a caring case manager, Emma and Leo’s family found a safe, stable home and reliable access to food. Leo was enrolled in preschool, where he could learn, grow, and make friends. Emma finally had a quiet place to do her homework and manage her big feelings. Emma shared: “Now we eat breakfast every morning before my mom brings me to school. And my tummy doesn’t growl anymore at night.” With a stable home and consistent support in place, the family was able to focus on next steps—building routines, strengthening school attendance, and creating a sense of security for both kids. This is what happens when a community comes together. United Way removes barriers, creates stability, and gives kids like Emma and Leo the foundation they need to succeed—at home, in school, and in life. How Your Gift Makes an Impact Every dollar matters—and right now, every dollar goes twice as far. $25 – Provides a week of nutritious meals for a family $50 – Gives a child one week of access to preschool or early learning $75 – Offers one night of safe shelter for a child experiencing homelessness $100 – Ensures a student receives a month of mental health support When families have the stability they need, kids can focus on being kids—learning, growing, and thriving. Go Deeper: Experience the Poverty Simulation on February 10 Want to better understand the challenges many families face every day? Join United Way’s Poverty Simulation, an interactive experience that builds empathy and understanding around the realities of financial instability. 👉 Register for the Poverty Simulation now until Feb 6 Give Today. Build Brighter Futures. This Giving Hearts Day, your generosity can provide stability, opportunity, and hope for local kids and families across Cass and Clay counties. 👉 Build Brighter Futures for Kids—Give on Giving Hearts Day United Is the Way We Build Brighter Futures for Kids in Need