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Health

We remove barriers to ensure everyone in our community is healthy, with a focus on access to food and health care.

CAI’LYNN’S SNACK BAG STORY

Cai’Lynn’s story is one example of how Valley of the Sun United Way is working to improve health outcomes for children across our community.

Through our Pantry Packs program, we help ensure kids have consistent access to basic nutrition, especially outside of school hours when meals may not be available. Each pack is filled with shelf-stable food items and sent home with students, helping support both the child and their family, so they have the food they need to stay healthy and ready to learn.

Health Creates Opportunity

Good health makes everything else possible. When people can access nutritious food, preventive care and supportive services, children are better able to learn, adults are better able to work and families are better equipped to build stable futures.

Together, we’re creating healthier communities where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

How We Create Change

Connecting People to Better Health

Improving community health requires more than one program or one provider. We work alongside partners across Maricopa County to ensure individuals and families can access the resources they need to live healthier lives.

Connecting People to Better Health

Improving community health requires more than one program or one provider. We work alongside partners across Maricopa County to ensure individuals and families can access the resources they need to live healthier lives.

Food Access

Connecting families with nutritious food through community partnerships, emergency assistance and SNAP enrollment.

Healthcare Access

Helping individuals navigate healthcare services and connect with medical and behavioral health resources.

Heat Relief & Safety

Protecting vulnerable residents during Arizona’s extreme heat through preparedness efforts, cooling resources and heat relief distribution.

Community Connections

Helping individuals access the local services and support systems that strengthen long-term health and well-being.

Featured Programs

Pantry Packs Program

For children with limited access to food at home, school may be the only place they can get a nutritious meal. We believe in helping kids have a better relationship with food and more focus on their education, not their hunger.

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Group of volunteers walking through grass

Disaster Preparedness

Arizona faces a range of hazards, from extreme heat and wildfires to monsoon storms and power outages, that threaten the health and safety of our communities. Valley of the Sun United Way is working to help residents, families, and neighborhoods stay ready, respond effectively, and recover stronger when disaster strikes.

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Strong Partnerships. Healthier Communities.

Improving health takes collaboration. Valley of the Sun United Way works alongside healthcare providers, food banks, nonprofit organizations, government agencies and community leaders to address the factors that influence health every day. Together, we’re creating a stronger network of care that helps more people access the support they need.

Advance Community
Aster Aging
AZCEND
Creighton Community Foundation
Helping Families In Need
NourishPHX
Paz de Cristo Community Center
Tempe Community Action Agency
United Food Bank
Unlimited Potential
Valley of the Sun YMCA
Waste Not
WHEAT

Explore Other Essential Areas

children sitting on a classroom rug clapping

Education

Closing opportunity gaps to ensure children read at grade level by 3rd grade and youth are prepared for educational success and employment.

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kids running through the threshold of their home

Housing & Homelessness

Ensuring all can have a safe home to call their own.

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