Basic Needs

Fighting for everyone in Polk, Hardee & Highlands Counties

UWCF helps stabilize short-term crises by providing critical interventions and referrals.

When individuals are devastated by natural disasters, acts of violence, hunger, homelessness or grief, United Way and our partners provide critical services.

2-1-1 is a vital information and referral service that connects hundreds of Central Florida residents to the help they need. Our team of highly trained specialists are available 24/7 to connect individuals with the best services available in Polk, Hardee and Highlands counties.

United Way’s 2-1-1 provides information about:

Supplemental food and nutrition programs
Clothing, shelter and housing options
Academic and childcare services
Financial assistance
Emergency information and natural disaster relief
Health care services
Child, adolescent and adult mental health services

Addiction prevention and rehabilitation programs
Support groups for individuals with mental illnesses and special needs
A safe, confidential path out of physical or emotional domestic abuse
Adult, child, family and elder services
Services for individuals with disabilities

Partner agencies with funded services include:

Catholic Charities of Central Florida
Champion for Children Foundation of Highlands County, Inc.
Chapter’s Health, Good Shepherd Hospice
Children’s Home Society Greater Lakeland Division
Hardee Help Center

HELP of Fort Meade, Inc.
Peace River Center for Personal Development, Inc.
Talbot House Ministries
The Salvation Army of East Polk
The Salvation Army Serving West Polk
Youth & Family Alternatives, Inc.

Success Story: When Health Care Leads to Job Reinstatement

October 19, 2023

Hurricane Season Emergency Numbers

June 13, 2022

Ashley’s Story

May 11, 2021

Bringing Hope to Those in Their Darkest Hour

November 17, 2020

Breaking the Cycle

August 31, 2018

Our Mission

To inspire our community to give, advocate and volunteer by identifying needs and mobilizing vetted resources to create positive, local change.

Our Vision

To unite our community and empower everyone to achieve their full potential.

Contact Us

BY MAIL
PO Box 1357,
Highland City, FL 33846

BY PHONE
863.648.1500

VISIT US
5605 US Highway 98 S.
Lakeland, FL 33812

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