Basic Needs Initiative

While we work to address the root causes of important community issues, United Way realizes that there are individuals in our region who need our support right now. That’s why we work to provide basic needs of food, shelter, health, and safety. When individuals are unable to meet their immediate needs, it becomes more difficult to focus on long-term goals such as employment, housing, or education.

Programs partnered with United Way in the Basic Needs focus area are required to collaborate with other programs that help transition clients beyond basic needs assistance, and help them move toward long-term self-sustainability.

• 22,000+ of Chippewa Valley residents struggle to afford the basic cost of living.
• 111 people reported homeless in Eau Claire County from January 2021 point in time count.

Chippewa Valley residents will have access to food, shelter and medical services in their time of need.

Households living at or below the ALICE threshold.

• Food - includes groceries and meals.
• Shelter/Housing - includes sleeping, transitional, warming, and personal hygiene facilities, as well as rental assistance. (Does not include energy assistance.)
• Medical care - basic health care and prescriptions; basic dental care and prescriptions.
• Programs that enhance access to the above services.

United Way funding supports programs who provide basic needs services of food, shelter, and medical care to community members.