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Hunger is a big problem in Maricopa County. When a person is hungry, they lose health, focus, and energy. With 87,000 households in the Valley not knowing where their next meal is coming from, finding a way to participate in Hunger Action Month is critical to breaking the cycle of poverty.

You may have heard that Valley of the Sun United Way is hosting the 2nd annual UNITE: A Day of Action on Saturday, September 16, but do you know why?

The news of the tragedy left in the shadows of Hurricane Harvey and Hurricane Irma continues to spread as neighborhoods are left devastated. People across the country are looking for ways to help and reach out to the victims of these storms so their lives can be put back together and their communities rebuilt. If you are looking for a way to provide hurricane relief assistance, these resources are a great start.

Students missing only a day or two of classes every few weeks are already starting to fall behind in school. Missing just 2 days each month adds up to missing 10% of the entire school year.

The work education providers are doing to ensure children enter school ready to succeed is extremely important. That’s why Valley of the Sun United Way’s Quality First program is here to help!

Poverty greatly impacts students on many levels. Coming to school hungry, with holes in their shoes and lack of a jacket can set the tone for the day. Sitting in class with a decaying tooth or unaddressed illness impacts a student’s ability to fully engage in their learning.

My life used to be typical in regards to living and lifestyle. Living the American dream. Great job, great home, great family, and great life. Until I found myself homeless…

Vello, the virtual tutoring program making its way into elementary schools across the nation, has finished the pilot period and is ready to launch into the new school year. The program allows passionate professionals to be a tutor from anywhere, even on their lunch break at work, with children in need of one on one attention to build their reading skills.
As poverty continues to thrive in our community, remember that making a large impact can’t happen with just one organization. Companies throughout the Valley have come together to break the cycle of poverty by donating and volunteering with Valley of the Sun United Way.
