We Fight Poverty
At United Way, We Fight Poverty.
We fight poverty – the kind that traps families for generations. Why? Because poverty determines a child’s educational experiences, healthcare, nutrition and life expectancy. Because a child born into poverty is more likely to raise her own family in poverty one day. Because this cycle of poverty severely limits our region’s potential.
Poverty is the most pressing challenge facing Chatham County.
At United Way, we Live United against poverty by fighting for the success of every child and the stability of every family in our region.
Research shows that children succeed when their parents or caregivers succeed. That’s why we take a two-generation approach to help people break the cycle of poverty.
We can’t do this work alone. That’s why we invest in nonprofit partners that assist with basic needs, nurture youth and families and strengthen the community.
- 50% of Chatham County School Students are enrolled in the Free and Reduced Cost Lunch Program.
- 66% of renter households in Chatham are making less than 80% of the Average Median Income and are cost-burdened by housing expenses.
- 40% of Chatham County residents have visited a food pantry in the last year.
- The basic living expenses for a senior living in Chatham County are higher than the state-wide average.
Last year, United Way of Chatham County served one in three Chatham County residents through programs supported with your gift.
OUR FUNDING PRIORITIES
Financial Stability

We provide a path toward financial stability to individuals and families by:
- Degree and job skills training
- Increasing financial literacy and development of a long-term financial plan
- English proficiency programs
- Food bank and emergency housing assistance
Education

We give children and youth the tools needed for a prosperous future by:
- Ensuring they attend high-quality, affordable preschool programs and meet their milestones
- Strengthening their social and basic life skills needed for success
- Providing opportunities for career exploration and work experience
Health

We ensure Chatham residents have the resources they need by:
- Increasing awareness and opportunities for wellness, prevention and early disease protection
- Access to health care services, including mental health and prescriptions
your gifts make an impact
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