In response to the growing needs of Springfield’s Haitian families and offers of support coming from across the United States and beyond, United Way of Clark, Champaign & Madison Counties has launched the Springfield Unity Fund.
Donations to this targeted fund directly support nonprofits with boots on the ground providing critical direct services to Springfield’s Haitian families as they work to successfully integrate into the community. These donations will be distributed with urgency as we unite to eliminate the strain on Springfield’s social services and maintain community stability by investing in the well-being of its Haitian families. Donate and learn more here, or text unityfund to 53555:
As the backbone nonprofit of the region, United Way of Clark, Champaign & Madison Counties is a trusted organization in convening community resources to address critical needs. United Way’s focus has long supported providing access to essential services for the community. These services include pre-K education, English language courses, driving instruction and much more. The Haitian community, which has recently garnered significant attention in Springfield, is no exception.
“The Springfield Unity Fund will allow people across the nation to quickly and effectively provide targeted support to our Haitian families, as we work together to ensure our neighbors feel welcomed, supported and empowered to thrive,” said Kerry Lee Pedraza, Executive Director of United Way of Clark, Champaign & Madison Counties. “United Way is and always has been committed to bringing together individuals, organizations and resources to foster a stronger, more unified community.”
In recent days, Springfield has received increased attention regarding the addition of legal immigrants and the strain on local resources. However, the response from the local community has largely been one of open arms, with many eager to support their Haitian neighbors who are filling vacant jobs, opening businesses and contributing to revitalizing Springfield’s economy.
United Way works closely with local organizations and the immigrant population and has the ability to quickly collect and disburse resources to meet immediate needs in the community. Through collaboration with local nonprofits working directly with families, United Way is able to ensure donations support Haitian families, helping them quickly become stable, thriving contributors to the Springfield community.
About United Way of Clark, Champaign & Madison Counties
United Way of Clark, Champaign & Madison Counties is dedicated to increasing the organized capacity of people to care for one another. The organization’s vision is to nurture a safe, healthy, caring community that builds on the strengths of its citizens, its neighbors, its businesses and its human services delivery systems. Through collaboration, innovation and service, United Way works to create lasting, positive change in education, financial stability and health. Together with our donors and volunteers, we invested over $651,300 across Clark, Champaign and Madison counties this past year to provide shelter, education and food to families in need, creating a more equitable community for everyone. For more information, please visit www.uwccmc.org.
