Children in a classroom with United Way adults
Global Reach

U.S. and Canada

Map of countries in US and Canada region

Countries In This Region

Overview

United Way's roots are deep in this region with the founding of United Way tracing back to Denver, Colorado in 1887. Community collaboration is at the heart of local United Ways across U.S. and Canada. Collectively, more than 1,000 local United Ways serve millions of families in need.


From strengthening local resilience to advancing health, youth opportunity, and financial security, local United Ways bring people and resources together to tackle each communities' toughest challenges to create a future where every person in every community can reach their full potential.

We unite people, ideas and innovation and bring them together to solve humanity's most complex issues.

- Fahim Haque, Centraide of Greater Montreal

U.S. and Canada Impact

Bringing local ideas, people and resources together to make sure everyone has the opportunity to thrive.  

7.3M

individuals served across Canada each year

900+

local United Ways in communities across the United States

750K+

volunteers across the United States each year

Stories Across U.S. and Canada

211 operators in Los Angeles assisting callers
Press Release

Housing Insecurity Emerges as Most Pressing Need Across the U.S., New 211 Data Shows

In 2025, 211 contact centers across the United States had more than 19 million requests for help, with housing assistance being the top need.
Ariel smiling wearing shirt that says beautiful.
Impact Story

United Way’s Housing Support Meets People Where They Are

Calling 211 can help you find housing and keep a roof over your head. Supported by United Way, 211 connects you to community partners who can help develop a housing plan that works for you.
Learning Center
Impact Story

Reona Dyess Serves Up Services to Help Families Fight Hunger

United Way Volunteers
Impact Story

Volunteer Profile: Christine and Morgan

 A mother reads a bedtime story.
Impact Story

NJ 211 is Connecting People to What They Need When They Need It

A woman selects canned goods at a food distribution location.
Impact Story

Stamping Out Hunger, One Neighborhood at a Time

Individuals sitting on the ground at a temporary shelter

18M+

referrals through 211 in 2024

Supported by United Way, 211 is a free, confidential service that connects people to locally available programs and resources across the U.S. and Canada. In 2024, the 211 network responded to over 16 million requests for help resulting in more than 18 million hyperlocal referrals for assistance.

How You Can Help

Take the next step to support thriving communities. Your gift now or in the future, or the gift of your time, are valuable contributions to our shared mission.