POUGHKEEPSIE– United Way of the Dutchess-Orange Region (UWDOR) successfully hosted its annual School Supply Distribution on Wednesday, August 20th. For many families in our community, the cost of back-to-school supplies is a significant burden. Pencils, notebooks, backpacks and art supplies – these essential items can quickly add up, leaving some children feeling unprepared and left behind before the first bell even rings.
Holiday Helping Hand, a collaborative effort between the Poughkeepsie Journal and the United Way of the Dutchess-Orange Region, is designed to provide a small amount of assistance to Dutchess County individuals and families who might otherwise have little or nothing for the holidays. Funds are given to local organizations to purchase gifts, food and/or parties for children or seniors, or utility grants for families in need.
The challenges facing our community are complex, and they require more than a single solution. They demand a collective vision and shared action. While United Way has a long history of investing in local nonprofits, the growing needs of the Dutchess-Orange Region call for a focused, collaborative approach. We believe the opportunity for profound change lies in uniting our efforts – government, businesses, schools, nonprofits, and dedicated individuals – to build a better future together.
For a growing number of U.S. households, financial stability is nothing more than a pipe dream, no matter how hard their members work. These households are ALICE – Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed – earning above the Federal Poverty Level yet struggling to afford basic expenses. Households below the Threshold are forced to make impossible choices — like deciding whether to pay for utilities or a car repair, whether to buy food or fill a prescription.
Need additional support? Not sure where to start? Call our 2-1-1 hotline for free, confidential assistance. Our expertly trained call specialists are here to connect you to services based on your specific needs.
You're eligible for our services if you're enrolled in Medicaid and need one or more of the health-related social assistances listed below.
United Way of the Dutchess-Orange Region strives to create an environment where every community member feels welcomed, respected, and valued. Our goal is not only to share knowledge but to help foster empathy and spark conversations that lead to positive change.
We believe education is a powerful tool for empathy. By sharing accessible, accurate, and culturally grounded resources, we aim to support individuals and organizations in becoming more informed, compassionate, and understanding.
Behind every successful initiative, every impactful program and every life changed, there's a dedicated team. At United Way of the Dutchess-Orange Region, we're more than colleagues; we're a family committed to building a stronger, more equitable community. We pour our hearts into our work, collaborating with local partners, volunteers, and donors to create lasting solutions for the challenges facing our neighbors.