United Way invests $136,000 in 16 nonprofits’ capital improvement projects

United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania is distributing $136,467 to 16 local nonprofits through the annual Falk Facilities and Technology Improvement Fund, which funds capital improvement projects such as building renovations and repairs, appliance purchases and technology upgrades.

Since 2014, United Way has made 110 investments totaling $1,035,430 to organizations through the Falk Fund. Recipients must be 501(c)(3) status nonprofits delivering primarily health and human services in Allegheny County. Eligible organizations are also either United Way partner agencies or recent recipients of unrestricted funds from The Pittsburgh Foundation. Applications closed on Oct. 28, 2024.

Funded projects include new classroom flooring for a family and children’s center and HVAC repairs for a workforce development-focused nonprofit. Investments from this Falk funding cycle help local organizations make accessibility and security upgrades and buy new playground, kitchen and laundry equipment to increase capacity to serve the community.

Other investments this cycle include $12,500 to Carnegie-based nonprofit Greater Hope Restoration Ministries to furnish its new 24-hour child care center. Scheduled to open in spring 2025, the center aims to accommodate parents working nontraditional hours while creating child care jobs that pay a living wage. The need is significant: only one other child care provider in Allegheny County is open 24 hours a day.