Advancing the region through strong and equitable neighborhoods

The Chicago region faced unprecedented health, economic and social justice crises over the past year and a half. Centuries of racism and disinvestment created inequalities across the Chicago region that were amplified by COVID-19. But when faced with so much uncertainty, our community quickly came together to support our neighbors in need.

With the help of thousands of donors, United Way of Metro Chicago and The Chicago Community Trust launched the Chicago Community COVID-19 Response Fund (CCRF). The CCRF collectively raised $35 million and distributed 100% to more than 400 local agencies that ensured thousands of families could access food, stay in their homes and receive critical health services.

“Across the region, nonprofit workers and volunteers are committed to serving our neighbors every day,” says Sean Garrett, president and CEO of United Way of Metro Chicago. “The Chicago Community COVID-19 Response Fund was created to ensure that these hardworking individuals and organizations had the resources they needed to continue their great work. We are so grateful for the generosity of thousands of Chicagoans who made this possible.”

While the pandemic is not over and there is still much work to be done, the United Way of Metro Chicago is optimistic for the future. United Way of Metro Chicago believes in a dual approach strategy that one, helps our neighbors meet their basic needs, such as food and shelter and two, helps our neighborhoods become stronger and more equitable. Today, United Way of Metro Chicago supports 132 nonprofits around the Chicago region and works with more than 200 partners in 10 neighborhood networks in predominantly Black and Latinx neighborhoods across the city and suburbs, including Blue Island/Robbins in the south suburbs. People across the city and region deserve equitable opportunities for success, and with your help, United Way of Metro Chicago can make that possible.

Uniting for the holidays to help neighbors

Even before the pandemic, one in three Illinois families were struggling to meet their basic needs, such as food, housing and health care, according to United Way of Illinois ALICE research. United Way launched Uniting for the Holidays in 2020 to provide neighbors across the region with a holiday meal, PPE, toys and more to help meet their basic needs and brighten the holiday season. In 2021, United Way will be expanding its reach to serve 10 suburban communities, including south suburban communities of Blue Island, Chicago Heights, Ford Heights, Harvey and Robbins.

Meeting neighbors’ most basic needs, such as food security, is a key part of United Way’s approach to building a stronger, more equitable Chicago region. Your support will ensure thousands of families receive a meal and gifts that will brighten their holiday. You can make a difference this season. Visit liveunitedchicago.org/uniting-holidays.