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Make a Difference

Speak Out for Change

Encourage legislators to support policies that strengthen communities and advance health, youth opportunity, and financial security for all.

Policy Initiatives

How You Can Speak Out

United Way is driving policy change. Explore our advocacy work and find out how you can make a difference and help communities nationwide.
 

  • Join United Way in asking your member of Congress to cosponsor the HELP Act. This legislation provides funding for 211—a vital service that helps connect communities with human services while reducing the call burden on law enforcement.

    • Contact your member of Congress.
    • Advocate for the passage of SB 1729 and HR 3498.
    • Ensure 211 can continue to serve your community.
       

    Take Action Now 

  • United Way advocates for a strong Farm Bill to make sure no one goes hungry. The Farm Bill helps families get nutritious food during tough times through SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program).

    • Call on Congress to support SNAP.
    • Ensure families and children have food security.
    • Advocate for investments in anti-hunger programs.

    Support SNAP
     

  • The Child and Earned Income Tax Credits help families and keep kids out of poverty. Expanding them will lead to more financial help for families who really need it.

    • Get Congress to expand the CTC and EITC.
    • Ensure families have the financial support they need.
    • Advocate for policy changes that reduce poverty.


    Support Tax Credits 
     

  • Reliable internet is vital for work, school, and staying connected. The Affordable Connectivity Program helps families access affordable internet, especially in areas without good access. United Way is pushing to keep it funded.

    • Ask Congress to keep supporting the program that gets affordable internet to more families.
    • Make sure every family has access to reliable internet, no matter where they live.
    • Close the gap in internet access and help communities stay connected.


    Support ACP Funding 
     

Policy and Advocacy

 
U.S. Federal Policy Priorities


The United Way network plays a vital role in advancing opportunity and strengthening democracy, as well as in mobilizing the caring power of communities for the common good. With deep roots in their communities — and an understanding of what they need most to thrive — local United Ways have a strong voice with policymakers who are shaping our laws, policies, and governmental systems.

United Way Worldwide has set its policy priorities for the 118th Congress, drawing on insights from local United Ways across the country. They include focusing on the promotion of racial and economic equity and opportunity. And they encourage collaboration and problem-solving while bolstering civic involvement and democracy.


Learn more about our public policy agenda. 
 

In the News

Learn how United Way is advocating on behalf of communities.

image-solvinghunger

Ending Hunger in America

United Way Worldwide Advocacy Forum Group Photo

Insights from the 2024 Advocacy Forum and Capitol Hill Day

The HELP Act is a Lifeline for America's Communities

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