Community Resilience
Addressing urgent needs today for a better tomorrow
WORCESTER TOGETHER FUND
UNITED RESPONSE FUND
UWCM UNITED RESPONSE FUND
UNITED is the WAY to respond to crisis. Our community is currently bracing for the loss of food security SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) and energy assistance LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program), both of which are not currently funded past November 1st.
The United Response Fund is a $500,000 initiative launched by the United Way of Central Massachusetts (UWCM) to provide rapid, flexible relief in response to urgent community needs, disasters, and crises.
We are living in a time of normalized instability, with an increasing number of disasters brought on by natural and man-made disruptions. UWCM is forward focused on strengthening our local communities by proactively creating a fund to address these emerging needs.
UWCM United Response Fund will galvanize efforts to make our region more resilient and prepared to address local community needs, helping the most vulnerable today while preparing for a stronger tomorrow.
Immediate Relief
Assists affected agencies/nonprofits/businesses with their immediate needs not covered by government programs or other traditional relief sources.
Recovery
Longer term resources to aid recovery and strengthen community rebuilding. .
ReSILIENCE
Efficient, transparent fund management to ensure an ongoing resource for the community. Preparedness for future crisis.
ELIGIBILTY
Criteria for fund distribution would be established on a case-by-case basis appropriate to the scale of the unique disaster, number of individuals impacted, and the significance of recovery response needed. Funds are quickly allocated through a streamlined review process using best practices learned during the COVID-19 pandemic.
AGENCIES / NONPROFITS / BUSINESSES: To apply for UWCM United Response Funds regarding the food security SNAP and/or energy assistance LIHEAP contact Kerry Conaghan: Kerry.Conaghan@unitedwaycm.org