PA 211 was proud to take the national stage at this year’s 211 Thrive Conference, joining colleagues from across the country to explore how 211s are adapting, innovating, and collaborating to meet growing community needs. The event brought together leaders, partners, and practitioners dedicated to strengthening the 211 network and advancing equitable access to help...

United Way of Pennsylvania (UWP) joined SEIU Local 668 and other community advocates at a press conference today to highlight the growing challenges caused by the state budget impasse and the federal government shutdown, which are now disrupting essential programs like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Kristen Rotz, President of United Way of Pennsylvania,...

United Way of Pennsylvania, together with statewide partners from the Coalition of Critical Service Providers, gathered at the Capitol to raise the alarm about the growing harm caused by Pennsylvania’s unresolved state budget. Now entering the fourth month without a spending plan, critical service providers are reporting layoffs, program closures, and reduced access to essential...

UWP, along with other critical service providers including nonprofits, county agencies, and for-profit organizations from across the Commonwealth, came together to form the Budget Impasse Coalition in response to the ongoing state budget impasse and its growing impact on communities. The recent Budget Impasse Survey collected responses from more than 100 organizations representing all 67 counties and...

On Tuesday, September 9th, a fire devastated the Jefferson Apartments in Pittsburgh’s Squirrel Hill neighborhood. Firefighters contained the blaze, but the building sustained catastrophic damage and although there was no loss of life, dozens of residents have been permanently displaced and suffered severe personal and property losses. Mayor Ed Gainey declared a local disaster emergency...

On July 4, 2025, President Trump signed the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, H.R. 1, into law. This legislation introduces a number of changes to the federal tax code that will begin impacting workers, parents, and seniors starting in Tax Year 2025. While these updates are intended to provide relief and new opportunities for many...

When disaster strikes, families may face the unimaginable challenge of losing their homes overnight. In these moments, PA 211’s partnership with Airbnb.org becomes a lifeline, connecting displaced residents and first responders with safe, temporary housing. Meeting Critical Needs in Times of Crisis Through this collaboration, PA 211 acts as a referral partner, identifying individuals and...

This week, United Way leaders from across the country, including Kristen Rotz, President of United Way of Pennsylvania, and Melody Zimmerman, Public Policy Director, are on Capitol Hill as part of United Way Worldwide’s Advocacy Forum and Hill Day. Nearly 450 advocates have gathered in Washington, D.C., to meet with lawmakers and urge support for...

United Way of Pennsylvania is proud to announce that it has been awarded a $750,000 grant through the Pennsylvania Housing Affordability and Rehabilitation Enhancement (PHARE) fund, administered by the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency (PHFA). This funding is part of a larger $64.8 million investment supporting nearly 400 affordable housing initiatives in all 67 counties across...

In the aftermath of the severe wind storm that swept through Southwestern Pennsylvania on April 29, 2025, PA 211 served as a vital lifeline for residents seeking help and information during a time of crisis. With wind gusts reaching up to 74 mph and widespread power outages and damage across multiple counties, the need for...

On May 13, United Way of Pennsylvania led a day of advocacy at the State Capitol in Harrisburg, bringing together community voices from across the Commonwealth to speak up on critical issues that affect everyday Pennsylvanians. Representatives from the United Way and PA 211 networks joined forces to meet with state lawmakers. Their goal: to...

The Pennsylvania House of Representatives has taken a powerful step toward economic opportunity for working families. With a resounding bipartisan vote of 185 to 18, House Bill 820 the Working Pennsylvanians Tax Credit, passed the House, demonstrating strong legislative support for policies that support workforce participation and lift working people out of poverty and into...

United Way of Pennsylvania is proud to recognize the dedicated volunteers and partners who made the 2024 Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) season a success—and to highlight the critical role that PA 211 played in helping connect thousands of Pennsylvanians to this valuable service. Through a strong partnership between local United Ways, community organizations, and...

The Pennsylvania Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (PA VOAD) held its most recent convening with a strong focus on improving coordination and communication across disaster response systems in the Commonwealth. PA 211 participated in this collaborative session, which centered on three critical themes: information sharing and resource routing, volunteer management, and donation management.  As the...

United Way of Pennsylvania advocates for legislation that helps more families thrive. We were proud to stand with Representative Chris Sappey from Chester County on April 8 to support her bill which would create the Working Pennsylvanians Tax Credit, a refundable state tax credit that would provide tax relief to some ALICE households in our...

Kristen Rotz, President of United Way of Pennsylvania (UWP), testified before the House Finance Committee on February 26, 2025, urging lawmakers to consider the benefits of implementing a state Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) in Pennsylvania. UWP, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, works to build financially resilient families and thriving communities throughout the state. In her...

The 2025 Freshman Legislators Briefing, hosted by the Pennsylvania Association of Nonprofit Organizations (PANO), brought together 15 nonprofit organizations, including United Way of Pennsylvania, to connect with newly elected legislators and discuss opportunities for collaboration in supporting Pennsylvanians. Representing United Way of Pennsylvania and PA 211, Kim Amsler joined nonprofit leaders in welcoming legislators and...

Our 2025-2026 PA 211 Funding Request is now available to view on our website. You can view our full funding request here. The request goes into detail about the program, its funding streams, and organizational design, as well as makes the case for why PA 211 should be increased from the current level of $750,000 to $2.5 million....

Harrisburg, PA – On February 11, 2025, United Way of Pennsylvania and PA 211 are celebrating211 Day, reminding Pennsylvanians that no one has to navigate challenges alone. It’s a day tohonor the hard work and dedication of individuals in our statewide network of resourcenavigators who answer the call, text or chat when a neighbor takes...

On January 30, 2025, Kim Amsler and Melody Zimmerman joined housing advocates, state officials, and community leaders at the Pennsylvania Capitol Building to discuss solutions to the state’s growing housing challenges. As part of the Housing Action Plan Roundtable, their participation reflected UWP’s dedication to ensuring that housing policies and programs directly benefit Pennsylvania families,...

As we turn the page to 2025, United Way of Pennsylvania and PA 211 take this moment to reflect on the past year with gratitude and pride—and to look ahead with optimism and renewed commitment to our mission of supporting individuals and families across the Commonwealth. Looking Back on 2024: A Year of Impact and...

The PA 211 Disaster Response: Community Resource Coordinator will be part of a statewide team responsible for identifying appropriate resources and referral pathways in coordination with local and state agencies to meet the disaster related unmet needs of community members in cooperation with Disaster Case Managers (DCM) and support the administration of the Disaster Recovery...

The Federal Home Loan Bank of Pittsburgh (FHLBank), in collaboration with housing finance agencies in Delaware, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia, has announced the allocation of $8.447 million in Home4Good grants to combat homelessness across the three states. United Way of Pennsylvania’s application for the “Housing Problem Solving Initiative”, which was approved for $604,000, will be...

Join the UWP team as a Marketing and Communications Coordinator! In this role you will support United Way of Pennsylvania and PA 211 by advancing their missions through innovative marketing strategies and communication efforts. This position ensures that the UWP and PA 211 brands are consistently represented and effectively communicated across all platforms. Click here...

When a historic lake-effect snowstorm blanketed Erie County in early December, PA 211 served as a vital connection point for residents in need of assistance, responding to over 1,400 requests. Most of these requests focused on snow removal with additional needs surrounding shopping assistance, winter storm-related support, and other essential services. With Millcreek Township under...

In response to the ongoing snowstorm in Erie County, PA 211 is collaborating with emergency services to ensure community safety. Governor Shapiro has declared a disaster to mobilize additional support. Residents are advised to stay home, monitor local forecasts, and reserve 911 for life-threatening situations. While volunteer snow removal efforts are not yet active, PA...

November is National Gratitude Month, a time to reflect on the power of appreciation and the impact of giving back. At United Way of Pennsylvania (UWP), gratitude is not just a seasonal theme—it’s a year-round commitment that fuels our mission and creates positive change across the state. This month, we invite everyone to join us...

On November 20, 2024, Pocono Mountains United Way and Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau hosted the “More Front Doors: The Pocono Housing Summit” at Kalahari Resorts & Conventions. This pivotal event aimed at addressing the region’s critical housing challenges by fostering collaboration among industry leaders, policymakers, and community stakeholders.   The summit featured a keynote presentation by...

Join the UWP & PA 211 team as a Digital Equity AmeriCorps VISTA! In this role, you’ll help build and sustain the Connect-PA Digital Equity Hub, map services, develop outreach, engage organizations, and coordinate experts to support digital equity across Pennsylvania. This position is full-time and requires a one-year commitment with weekly in-office days in...

At the heart of Pennsylvania’s efforts to combat homelessness and housing insecurity lies PA 211, a vital connector between individuals in crisis and the services they need. As part of its mission to ensure that no Pennsylvanian faces hardship alone, PA 211 plays a crucial role in Coordinated Entry, a centralized approach to streamline access...

Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week is November 17 – 23, 2024 Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week is a time to acknowledge the challenges that too many individuals and families face daily. In Pennsylvania, these issues impact a significant portion of our population, straining local resources and intensifying the need for sustainable solutions. United Way of...

In honor of National Information & Referral (I&R) Day, celebrated annually on November 16th, PA 211 reflects the crucial role of I&R services across the Commonwealth. In times of crisis, uncertainty, or when navigating complex social systems, individuals often find themselves in need of support and guidance. This is where Information & Referral (I&R) services...

United Way of Pennsylvania (UWP) Digital Equity Consulting Corps (DECC) aims to bridge thedigital divide by promoting access to digital literacy and broadband adoption for underservedpopulations. This project targets low-income individuals, seniors, people with disabilities, criminaljustice involved individuals, ALICE households, and rural residents to fully participate in the digitaleconomy by addressing barriers such as broadband...

United Way of Pennsylvania (UWP) proudly joins United Way Worldwide (UWW) in unveiling a refreshed brand strategy that reaffirms its commitment to transforming lives and communities across the Commonwealth. As part of this global network, United Way of Pennsylvania is excited to align with this strategic update, which underscores the organization’s adaptability and ongoing impact....

Earlier this week, Emily Aubele, Vice President of PA 211, delivered a compelling presentation at the Keystone Emergency Management Association (KEMA) conference. The presentation was titled “Leveraging PA 211 for Disaster Response and Community Recovery.” The session highlighted PA 211’s integral role in providing essential services and support during emergencies, from natural disasters to public...

In celebration of Digital Inclusion Week (Oct 7 – 11), PA 211 reflects on the efforts to support communities through Digital Navigation In today’s digital age, access to the internet and the necessary tools to navigate it have become essential for daily life. However, millions of Pennsylvanians still struggle with digital access, whether due to...

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) has been awarded funding through the Innovative Coordinated Access and Mobility (ICAM) grant program to improve the Find My Ride program. This web-based platform is designed to serve as a comprehensive one-stop shop for human services transportation across the state, enabling individuals to easily find and book transportation services....

Too Small to Fail, the early education initiative of the Clinton Foundation, launched a commitment to reach families across Pennsylvania with information and tools to support early literacy, in partnership with the Barbara Bush Foundation for Family Literacy (BBF) and the United Way of Pennsylvania (UWP). Secretary Hillary Rodham Clinton made the announcement at the Clinton Global Initiative (CGI) 2024 Annual...

As the summer comes to a close, PA 211 reflects on a season filled with extraordinary efforts to support communities across Pennsylvania facing unexpected challenges. From natural disasters to critical infrastructure issues, PA 211 has been at the forefront, coordinating assistance and providing essential services to those in need. Here’s a look back at some...

In response to the recent water advisory issued by Pennsylvania American Water, PA 211 swiftly took action to assist community members who faced difficulties accessing bottled water. Understanding the needs of those with disabilities, seniors, and individuals without transportation, PA 211 worked closely with Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency (PEMA) to respond.  Community members and volunteers...

United Way of Pennsylvania (UWP) extends its gratitude to Verizon for their generous $50,000 grant, which will significantly enhance our efforts to promote digital equity across the state. This funding is crucial as we work to ensure that all Pennsylvanians can access the expanding broadband infrastructure, particularly in underserved communities. As Pennsylvania’s Broadband Development Authority...

Next week, United Way of Pennsylvania staff will travel to Washington, D.C. to participate in the 2024 Advocacy Forum & Capitol Hill Day, along with over 150 colleagues from across the United States.  The event, hosted by United Way Worldwide, will bring together passionate individuals to learn together and advocate for our 2024 federal priorities....

Pennsylvania’s new state budget fails ALICE on multiple fronts – it does not provide targeted, meaningful tax relief that these workers need. This budget also fails to deliver any public investment that addresses the shortage of available child care in Pennsylvania. These households, who generally earn too much to qualify for most public programs, and...

Statement on the Supreme Court’s Ruling in City of Grants Pass, Oregon v. Johnson On Friday, June 28, 2024, the U.S. Supreme Court issued an opinion in City of Grants Pass, Oregon v. Johnson, upholding local ordinances that ban homeless people from sleeping and camping in public places. Under this rule, localities will be able...

The Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency (PHFA) announced the recipients of the new round for funding for housing programs made available through the Pennsylvania Housing Affordability and Rehabilitation Enhancement (PHARE) fund. UWP’s application for “Eastern PA CoC & Western PA CoC Landlord Engagement” will be funded along with 322 housing and community development initiatives across the...

On June 6, 10 local United Ways and front-line PA 211 workers traveled to Harrisburg to advocate for an increase in funding for PA 211. During the press conference, PA 211 team members talked about their life experiences, how 211 helped them in times of need or how they wished they had known about the...

Wage growth offset by stubborn inflation and the expiration of enhanced federal tax credits were some of the contributing factors to the highest numbers of households experiencing financial hardship in Pennsylvania in 2022. Though wages for the lowest paid jobs have risen across the country at the fastest rate in four decades, the number of...

On Wednesday, May 15, United Way of Pennsylvania’s President Kristen Rotz, presented United Way of Lawrence County Executive Director Gayle Young with the inaugural Distinguished Leader Award. This award was created by member chief professional officers to recognize a peer for positive leadership, creativity and innovation, as well as dedication to the mission and vision...

UWP seeks an experienced Office Coordinator professional to support our high-functioning team of in-office and remote workers. The successful candidate possess excellent organizational skills, the ability to coordinate multiples tasks, and finds joy in doing their part to contribute to our mission by supporting our internal team, including staff and boards of directors. They are...

New partnership with PA 211 and Chester County Creates integration of 211 and 988 Services via the Chester County Human Needs Network. PA 211 and Chester County have partnered to provide Chester County residents with a one stop shop for assistance with basic needs and mental health services.The Human Needs Network will serve as a...

United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley raised a record-breaking $25,002,145 during its annual fundraising campaign, marking 14 consecutive years of growth for the nonprofit. The campaign was chaired by Tony and Adrienne DaRe of BSI Corporate Benefits, with a specific emphasis on the region’s rising mental health needs. The campaign was led by BSI...

Aging Our Way, PA is a 10-year roadmap to meet the needs of the Commonwealth’s older adults and improve services for this rapidly growing population. The roadmap aims to address the issues of accessibility and affordability for housing, transportation, communication and information, social participation, digital equity and access, as well as other important aspects of...

United Way of Bucks County has partnered with county commissioners to declare March as ALICE Awareness Month, recognizing families like Rachel who have benefited from the LIFT United program. The acronym stands for Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed (ALICE) families. The proclamation, signed by the Board of Bucks County Commissioners, aims to encourage community engagement,...