UW Valleys awards $180,000 in grants to local nonprofits

United Way St. Croix and Red Cedar Valleys Awards $180,000 in Community Impact Grants to Local Nonprofits

United Way St. Croix and Red Cedar Valleys (UW Valleys) is pleased to announce the approval of $180,000 in Community Impact Grants to 30 nonprofits throughout the organization's six-county service area of Burnett, Dunn, Pepin, Pierce, Polk, and St. Croix counties.

These grants will provide crucial support to organizations focused on improving the lives of area ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) families. Out of 49 nonprofit applicants, 30 were selected to receive UW Valleys funding, with a primary focus on supporting basic needs. In Western Wisconsin, about 1 in 4 households are ALICE. When combined with those living at or below the Federal Poverty Level, more than 1 in 3 Wisconsin households are struggling to make ends meet.

Community Impact Grants are a cornerstone of UW Valleys' long-standing commitment to improving lives across Western Wisconsin. Aligned with UW Valleys' mission to fight for the health, education, and financial stability of every person in the region, these grants are made possible through generous contributions through local United Way campaigns.

"Funding is reinvested directly into local nonprofits that are working to support ALICE individuals and families who are working yet still struggling to meet basic needs," said Steve McCarthy, UW Valleys Executive Director. "These grants help advance long-term, community-driven solutions in critical areas such as housing, hunger, safety, and other basic needs."

"ALICE is a real focus for United Way," noted McCarthy. "This population is one of the most vulnerable groups in our communities. We're grateful to partner with local organizations to help ensure that these families have access to the resources they need not only to survive but thrive."

By supporting local nonprofits that are directly addressing community needs, UW Valleys aims to foster a stronger, more resilient region. UW Valleys is committed to ensuring that all individuals and families, regardless of their economic status, have access to the tools and resources they need to succeed.

The 2025-2026 UW Valleys Community Impact Grant Partners are the following organizations.