When a neighbor needs help, Minnesotans pitch in. We don’t give it a second thought. There are people who could use a little help right now, and right here in the neighborhood we call Central Minnesota. Some are students who need learning assistance and mentorship. Others are parents struggling to provide healthy food and a safe environment for their families. Helping them is what we do at United Way of Central Minnesota. Change doesn’t happen alone.
Did you know that 20 percent of local students don’t graduate from high school on time? It doesn’t happen suddenly. Rather, it’s a problem that often extends back to kindergarten readiness. That’s why we get involved in education and literacy all the way from pre-school to career and college readiness. We believe all kids in Central Minnesota deserve the tools to build a successful future, and with your help, we can deliver outstanding educational programs and life-changing mentor opportunities.
Imagine not being able to pay your heating bill. For countless neighbors in Central Minnesota, it’s a reality. And you know how cold it gets here. This is just one example of a financial hardship that we strive to solve in our community. We do it by connecting those in need with the programs and education required to get back on their financially-stable feet. With programs like prescription drug discounts, emergency food and shelter, credit counseling, and job skills training, United Way improves lives.
Central Minnesota is one of the world’s best places to live in. No argument there. Yet, for thousands of our neighbors struggling with health issues, it can feel like a hopeless spot. As the name implies, our mission is to be the WAY to UNITE these people with the resources they need. This includes nutritious food, access to mental health programs, homelessness assistance, fitness activities, and much more. We can’t do it without our generous donors and kind volunteers. So to all of you, thank you for making a change.
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Discovery Community School in St. Cloud had a family night connecting parents, teachers and students. They played bingo and chose their own prizes: toys, games, snacks, school apparel and boxes of cereal. One observer at the event noted: “The thing the kids wanted the most was that box of cereal … because they wanted to have food at home. Any place else, the kids would’ve grabbed the games or toys." That observation says a lot about the needs of these kids.