MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
HUTCHINSON — The United Way of Reno County announced Wednesday it will invest $950,000 in community programs over the next year, supporting 39 programs operated by 23 partner agencies throughout Reno County.
The funding allocations were unveiled during a recognition event at the Stringer Fine Arts Center at Hutchinson Community College and are aimed at addressing some of the community's most pressing needs, including housing, childcare, mental health services and opportunities for youth.
The largest portion of the funding, $355,000, will support Youth Opportunity programs designed to help children and young people succeed through education, mentorship and developmental services.
Agencies receiving funding in Youth Opportunity are:
- Boys & Girls Club of Hutchinson
- Brighthouse
- Child Care Links
- Early Education Center
- Girl Scouts of Kansas Heartland
- Hadley Day Care Center
- Kansas Big Brothers Big Sisters
- Kansas Children Service League
- USD 308 Child Care Center
- Rise Up Reno Prevention Network
- YMCA
Another $305,000 will be directed toward Community Resiliency programs, which focus on strengthening families and communities through services such as housing assistance, crisis support and other essential resources. Those agencies receiving funding are:
- Brighthouse
- Food Bank of Reno County
- New Beginnings
- Rise Up Reno Prevention Network
- Salvation Army
- The Volunteer Center
Healthier Community initiatives will receive $161,000 to support programs that improve physical and mental well-being. Agencies receiving funding are:
- Brighthouse
- Horizons Mental Health
- Hospice and Homecare of Reno County
- Hutchinson Meals on Wheels
- Rise Up Reno Prevention Network
- YMCA
- CPRF
Another $127,500 will be invested in Financial Security programs that help individuals and families achieve greater economic stability. Agencies receiving funding are
- Boys and Girls Club of Hutchinson
- Brighthouse
- Circles Reno County
- Interfaith Housing
- Kansas Legal Services
- The Volunteer Center
- YMCA
United Way CEO Lacey Mills said the investments are designed to address critical community needs while creating opportunities for long-term success.
Funding recommendations were developed through United Way's annual community allocations process, which this year engaged a record 38 volunteers. Those volunteers reviewed funding applications, evaluated community needs and determined where resources could have the greatest impact.
The investments support United Way's mission of improving lives and strengthening communities by funding programs that address both immediate challenges and long-term solutions for Reno County residents.
Officials said the funded programs will serve thousands of local residents over the coming year through services ranging from youth development and childcare support to housing assistance, mental health services and financial stability programs.