How We Help

United Way of the Dutchess-Orange Region brings together people and resources to fight for the health, education and financial stability of every person in our community. 

For individuals and organizations that want to help improve the health of their community - United Way is the platform that enables individuals, groups and companies to make a difference - individually and collectively - in whatever way they wish to contribute their time, talent and treasure. See our Frequently Asked Questions.

Communities can thrive today and tomorrow and reach their future potential only if all members of the community are thriving. 

That's why United Way's focus is on the health and education of infants, children and young people. On those that are struggling in and just above poverty. On veterans who have served us and now need our help on their return to the community. One where seniors who have no support system have transport to medical appointments. We are building a strong future for Dutchess & Orange counties - a future where every individual and family in the community can thrive.

We envision a community where all babies are born healthy. Where children read proficiently by the 3rd grade. Where teens are not bullied in school and graduate prepared for college, career and life. Where families have secure homes and safe neighborhoods and no one goes to bed hungry. Where there is easy access to healthy food and healthcare. Our Programs and Initiatives aim to meet these goals.


 

Our Programs and Initiatives

United Way is here for YOU. We listen to the needs and concerns of our community partners, volunteers, key stakeholders and community members. To address these concerns, we have established programs that help provide basic needs, mobilization of volunteers, professional development training and more. Click on through our programs and initiatives to learn more.

Programs

Initiatives

Day of Sharing

Who is A.L.I.C.E.?

Day of Caring

Empire State Poverty Reduction Initiative

Nonprofit Professional Development Training

Mission United

Community Conversations

Mid-Hudson Community Profiles


 

Meet Who We've Helped

Theresa and Her Family

Theresa and her two children had no choice but to leave a violent situation at home in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic and seek help at an emergency shelter. The family arrived with nothing but the clothes on their backs—and the shelter was able to provide them with just the basic essential items. At the shelter, Theresa worked with advocates for safety planning, exploring her options, so she could keep her job and save for their future. She worked with the shelter’s staff to find an affordable and safe housing option.

Within a month of entering the shelter, Theresa found an apartment she could afford and had saved up for the first month's rent. The family was able to get assistance with the security deposit, as well as a gift card so they could shop for needed household items. Theresa and her children will continue to have support through the program to ensure they have a safe and independent life together — now and in the future. ​

Hailey's Story

Recently Hailey, a 3rd grade student, was asked what she was looking forward too. She replied that one of her favorite things to do in the summer is walk to the firehouse to get lunch, picking up food from a United Way subsidized food program. During the school year, she receives a backpack of food on Fridays through the same program.

When asked what she likes so much about the program, Hailey said “we even get extra snacks and stuff so Mommy doesn’t have to count how many we’re allowed to eat every day.”  Hailey worries a lot about her mom, Karen. She knows her mom is always working. Karen supports Hailey and her sister working two minimum wage jobs and receives very little child support as her ex is constantly changing jobs. Karen found it hard to accept assistance, but said: “When it is not my pay week and there is barely anything to eat at home, we need the food.” This food program gives families like Hailey’s the relief of knowing that there is enough food in the house. ​

Read more stories HERE


 

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Our Sponsors

Premier Annual Sponsors: Central Hudson Gas & Electric, M&T Bank, Orange & Rockland, Pratt & WhitneyAnnual Sponsors: IBM, Resorts World, RBT, TD Bank, Ulster SavingsMedia Sponsors