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Individuals and families have greater opportunity to thrive when they have access to nutritious food, a safe place to live and supportive community resources. Although the economy has stabilized for many households, data shows the need for essentials such as food and shelter are greater than ever in our region. Contacts to our PA 211 Southwest helpline have nearly tripled over the last five years. In 2023, PA 211 Southwest received 507,000 requests from people in need, up from 191,000 requests in 2019.

When you support Meeting Basic Needs, your donation helps:

Address food insecurity and provide access to nutritious food.

Ensure access to heat, water and electricity.

Provide services such as congregate meals and transportation for older adults as well as services to keep them connected. 

Fund home repairs and modifications to make homes safer and more accessible for people with disabilities and older adults.

Provide safety and support for women and their families who are victims of domestic violence. 

Provide access to reliable transportation. 

Partner Agencies

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A man in overalls and a beanie is smiling while carrying two boxes in front of a green 412 Food Rescue truck on a snowy day.
Partner Agencies

412 Food Rescue

Allegheny County
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Partner Agencies

Abiding Missions

Allegheny County
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Partner Agencies

ACTION-Housing, Inc.

Allegheny County
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$8.4M
invested in programs that meet basic needs.
644,000
people assisted with basic needs.

Stories of Impact

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house figures on blue background
Stories of Impact

Meals on Wheels connects seniors with services

Trusted relationships help identify and address broader needs beyond meal delivery.
Macedonia Family & Community Enrichment Center (FACE) 
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American flags
Stories of Impact

Veterans Place creates a path to stability and fulfillment  

Greg, a dedicated Army veteran with a strong work ethic, used his resilience and support from Veterans Place to overcome housing challenges and launch a new career as a concession manager.
Veterans Place of Washington Boulevard 
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red heart with wood block house
Stories of Impact

HEARTH gives moms a safe place to find joy and invest in themselves 

Jen reached out to HEARTH and was able to move her family into a safe housing space that provides support and community with others. 
North Hills Affordable Housing (dba HEARTH) 
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house figures on blue background
Stories of Impact

New Beginnings: A Mother’s Journey to Safety, Stability and Healing

The partnership between Women's Center and Shelter and the United Way played a crucial role in this family's journey toward financial stability.
Women's Center and Shelter of Greater Pittsburgh
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mechanic working on a car engine
Stories of Impact

​​Jewish Family and Community Services – SOS Pittsburgh​ ​​

Elaine, a single mother devoted to her three young children, and her family, relied on disability benefits to cover their monthly expenses.
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Get in Touch.

To learn more about how United Way funds organizations that meet basic needs, reach out to our Community Impact team to learn about our request for proposal process.