The United Way of Jasper County has awarded more than $225,000 in funding and services to 15 area nonprofits.
The funds allocated will support programs ranging from literacy programs in schools to food and shelter assistance, access to medical care to advocates supporting victims of domestic violence.
“United Way of Jasper County funding will truly have an impact on lives here in Jasper County,” said Jessica Lowe, UWJC executive director. “With help from this funding, agencies will be able to ensure that individuals from infants to seniors will have access to a variety of health and human service programs.”
Lowe said 16 local providers applied for funding for more than $312,000 in funding for 25 programs for the 2017-18 fiscal year. The applications were reviewed by four allocation teams comprised of 20 United Way of Jasper County board members and community volunteers. The teams launched the review process the end of January. During the course of eight weeks, the teams reviewed each application, interviewed program directors and conducted site visits to observe the day to day operations of the nonprofit agencies.
“The allocation teams do a tremendous amount of behind the scenes work to ensure dollars are going to support non-profits and programs that will truly help local citizens in need,” Lowe said. “Allocations would not be possible without the help of those who volunteer their time to process.”
Agencies allocated funds for the 2017-18 funding cycle include American Red Cross, Baxter Early Learning Center, Camp Fire USA, Clearview Recovery, Crisis Center Women’s Shelter, Crisis Intervention Services, IMPACT, Jasper County Council for Prevention of Child Abuse, Kid Assist, Newton YMCA, Peck Child Development, Progress Industries, Jasper County RSVP, Salvation Army and Willowbrook – A WesleyLife Adult Day Center. In addition to funding, CCWS and CIS receive use of office space, internet and utilities at no charge in the United Way office building.
“The agencies receiving funding and support from United Way are truly doing amazing work every day,” Lowe said. “Those who work and volunteer with United Way are thankful we can support the agencies so they can continue to help individuals in need.”
The agencies were notified at the end of March, and received their first of four funding installments on April 1. Lowe said during the past six years, the local United Way has allocated nearly $1.4 million dollars.
“The work of United Way is made possible thanks to the contributions from businesses and individuals who wish to make a difference where the live and work,” Lowe said. “I am humbled by the kindness of people who live in Jasper County because I get to see each day just how much good their generosity does in our community.”