News Summary
United Way Suncoast has announced a $14.13 million investment in community programs across Tampa Bay, focusing on educational opportunities and financial security. The funding, which spans three years, aims to support the ALICE population and will benefit 67 programs across several counties. Key allocations include $9.07 million for educational initiatives and $5.06 million for financial security programs. The funding cycle begins on July 1 and emphasizes collaborative approaches to improve community stability and career opportunities.
Tampa Bay, FL – United Way Suncoast (UWS) has announced a significant investment of $14.13 million aimed at enhancing community programs across Tampa Bay, focusing primarily on educational opportunities and financial security. This funding will be allocated over a three-year period and will serve areas including Pinellas, Hillsborough, Manatee, Sarasota, and DeSoto counties.
The primary intent of the funding is to support the ALICE population (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed), who frequently find themselves living paycheck to paycheck. A total of 67 programs will receive funding, emphasizing UWS’s commitment to aiding those in need within the community.
Of the total grant allocation, $9.07 million is designated for educational programs. This segment of funding targets critical areas such as grade-level reading, youth development, high school graduation rates, and kindergarten readiness. The remaining $5.06 million will be funneled into financial security programs aimed at workforce training and job placement assistance, helping individuals secure more sustainable employment.
Funding will be distributed in annual grants ranging from $20,000 to $100,000 for selected projects. Pinellas County emerged as a notable recipient, receiving 30% of the total investment, marking it as one of the most active regions for funding applications. Specific programs in Pinellas that were awarded funding highlight UWS’s tailored approach to community needs:
- Academy Prep Center of St. Petersburg’s Graduate Support Services
- Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay’s youth mentorship initiatives
- Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Tampa Bay’s academic success services
- Florida Dream Center’s work readiness program for ALICE individuals.
The selection process for these programs was thorough, involving a competitive review facilitated by 40 external reviewers with specialized knowledge in the education and nonprofit sectors. This collaborative approach aims to ensure the effectiveness and impact of the funded programs.
UWS recognizes the importance of helping individuals achieve stability and improved career prospects, extending beyond mere survival. The organization emphasizes its focus on building collaborative relationships with program leaders to enhance long-term outcomes for community members.
The funding cycle is set to commence on July 1 and will run through June 30, 2028. Alongside these program investments, UWS will continue to offer disaster relief funds and ACE grants (Access, Capacity, Equity) throughout the year, further demonstrating its commitment to supporting the needs of the community.
Community members interested in learning more about the funding and services offered by UWS are encouraged to visit their website, unitedwaysuncoast.org, for additional information and resources.
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Additional Resources
- St. Pete Catalyst: United Way Suncoast Invests $14.13M in Community Programs
- Wikipedia: Community Program
- NHL: Annual Equipment Sale Marks Success for Lightning Fans
- Google Search: Hockey Youth Program
- Q105: Gronkowski Donates to Hurricane Recovery
- Google Scholar: Hurricane Relief Efforts
- St. Pete Catalyst: Former Rays Player Supports Youth Through New Facility
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Youth Support Programs
- NHL: John and Holly Tomlin Honored as Lightning Community Heroes
- Google News: Community Heroes
Author: STAFF HERE TAMPA WRITER
The TAMPA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERETampa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Tampa, Hillsborough County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Gasparilla Pirate Festival, Florida State Fair, and Tampa Riverfest. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce and United Way Suncoast, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and technology that power the local economy such as BayCare Health System, Grow Financial Federal Credit Union, and KnowBe4. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HERESTPetersburg.com, and HERETallahassee.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
