United Way of Central Florida's goal is to improve lives in Polk, Hardee and Highlands counties by mobilizing the people and resources that can make a difference.
The first step, though, is to understand clearly what issues confront the people of Central Florida, what obstacles we face. They are varied, and of varying magnitude.
EDUCATION
38% of Polk County’s children start school “not ready to succeed.”
United Way is working to
HELP KIDS SUCCEED IN SCHOOL
--Lending Libraries have been established in 20% of Polk County’s pre-school resulting in 106,510 books checked out by parents to help develop early literacy skills.
--539 children in targeted neighborhoods receive books in the mail each month from the Dolly Parton Imagination Libraries.
--School-aged children who participate in academic support programs funded by the United Way significantly outperform comparison students on the FCAT.
INOME
20% of Polk County families with children under 5 are living below the poverty level ($22,000 for a family of 4)
United Way
PROMOTES FINANCIAL STABILITY FOR FAMILIES
--1,294 families were provided with crisis services.
--Through the Financial Stability Partnership of Polk 5 new free tax prep sites were established to help 1,045 families claim child care and earned income tax credits.
--Helped 448 single mothers gain improved jobs or child support orders to help build financial stability.
HEALTH
16% of Polk County’s residents are over 65 and 17% are living with disabilities.
United Way strives to
IMPROVING PEOPLE’S HEALTH
--490 seniors were provided with regular nutritious meals helping them to stay healthy and independent in their homes.
--3,300 services including home visits, socialization, small home repairs and transportation were provided to seniors to keep them independent.
--15,923 people were provided with preventive education programs including CPR, mental health, cancer and epilepsy support.
