Project & Innovative Grant Funding (Children & Youth focus)

Project & Innovative Grant Funding (Children & Youth focus) is sponsored by Capital Area United Way. Capital Area United Way invests in opportunities for young people to prepare for high school, college, and careers, and supports initiatives related to early childhood education, literacy development, afterschool and summer programs, and family engagement.

Our Impact | United Way of the Capital Area Community Impact is dedicated to creating initiatives and forging partnerships that spark sustainable, empowering change — promoting unity, health, youth opportunity, and economic growth for the ALICE population in Hinds, Madison, and Rankin Counties. To improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of communities around the world.

United Way envisions a world where all individuals and families achieve their human potential through education, income stability, and healthy lives. United Way of the Capital Area (UWCA) offers Community Impact Grants throughout the year, based on funding availability and alignment with priority focus areas.

These grants are awarded through a competitive process managed directly by UWCA and are reviewed by a decision-making committee using established eligibility and selection criteria. Community Impact Grants provide up to $10,000 in project funding for eligible 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations serving Hinds, Madison, or Rankin counties.

While no matching funds are required, proposed projects must demonstrate community support and align with one or more of UWCA’s impact areas: Education, Health, Financial Stability, and Community Resilience. Submissions for grant applications are closed at this time. We expand access to nutritious food and quality health education and services, giving people the resources they need to live healthy lives.

Together, we can create better health and well being for everyone. Health and Insurance Access Regardless of culture, language, or income, every member of our community deserves to be as healthy as possible. By engaging community partners, UWCA help all people get the care they need, in ways that work for them and their families.

Fees, fear, misinformation, or discrimination should not cost people their lives. By expandingaccess to quality coverage and care, United Way advances health and well-being for all. Nutrition and Food Security Healthy food is one of the foundations of a thriving community.

That’s why UWCA works to address the root causes of hunger and promote access to good nutrition for everyone. UWCA is committed to connecting families to healthier and affordable alternatives, because no one should choose between healthy meals and paying their bills. We create pathways for young people to reach their goals, from early childhood education to college and career success.

Together, we help young people realize their full potential. Strong reading skills open doors to discovery and opportunity. United Way Capital Area (UWCA) supports literacy initiatives that help children explore their world and build brighter futures.

Early literacy sets children up for success in life. UWCA expands access to literacy resources that can spark imagination and fuel learning for every child and youth. College and Career Readiness Investing in young people today ensures a vibrant tomorrow.

UWCA supports mentorship, apprenticeships, and skill-building programs to prepare young people for lives of leadership and purpose. Together, we can create pathways to success for every young person. We connect young people with the resources and opportunities they need to shape bright futures.

We connect people to education, tools, and job training so they have financial freedom and peace of mind. Together, we can create a stronger financial future for every generation. Adult Education / Job Training / Career Pathways A good job can change everything.

United Way partners with employers and educators to open doors to in-demand careers. Ongoing education helps workers stay relevant in a changing world. UWCA supports youth and adult learners in gaining skills and credentials to succeed in their careers.

Financial Education & Coaching A strong financial future requires more than a steady paycheck. UWCA equips people with tools and guidance today, so they can plan for a thriving tomorrow. Through learning and coaching opportunities, UWCA prepares people to define and reach their financial goals.

Overwhelming processes and paperwork prevent many families from getting support they deserve. By making it easier to access public benefits, UWCA helps families build stronger futures. We help communities prepare for, prevent, and respond to challenges, from crisis support and disaster relief to environmental protection.

Together, we can address urgent needs today for a better tomorrow. Disaster Relief & Recovery We help communities recover more quickly and rebuild long-term. Communities are strongest when we stand together.

UWCA coordinates resources and volunteers to help neighborhoods come back stronger after natural and man-made disasters. From raising funds to rallying volunteers, our network provides local disaster support at the speed of need. We take action to support long-term community recovery.

Crisis Hotline and Support Many people are unaware that they’re eligible for assistance. United Way connects people to housing, food, and education resources they qualify for, so they can thrive. The 211 helpline, supported by MS United Ways, is available 24/7.

By mobilizing real-time support and local resources, 211 helps people navigate crises and get the assistance they need.