YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – The United Way of Youngstown and the Mahoning Valley reshaped its programming when the pandemic hit.
In 2021, the Satur-Day of Caring food distribution, which was launched in 2020, grew from 25 volunteers to more than 150 who delivered essentials to 400 households each month, says Steven Logan, director of marketing.
As schools transitioned to virtual learning, the United Way distributed over $200,000 in grocery gift cards to families. As students returned to face-to-face learning, UW programs also returned, Logan says.
The Success By 6 staff worked to welcome students and their families back over the summer months. Close to 600 children in 18 school districts participated.
Similarly, the Success After 6 staff welcomed students back to in-person after-school programming, while still offering virtual tutoring.
The United Way staged hybrid and alternative fundraising events in 2021. With an increase in gifts from donors, the chapter is on track to raise more than $3 million for the fourth straight year, Logan says.