Before the pandemic, the flow of goods coming and going was ongoing and easily manageable, but nothing could have prepared us for the vast amount of donations requested and received in response to COVID-19 and the impact on our community.

The Digital Divide represents an urgent concern that continues to grow in light of the current pandemic, as it reinforces existing social inequalities between various socioeconomic groups.

We can’t stress enough how important your gifts are to United Way and to families in our community and we would like to tell you a bit more about how we’re putting your investments into action in our community.

This year, Valley of the Sun United Way will continue to provide relief for our Maricopa County neighbors, respond to emerging needs, address racial, social, economic and educational inequities, and help our community rebuild.

Through the Vello program, Valley of the Sun United Way was prepared to ensure children in our community would not be left behind when schools closed and families retreated to their homes to slow the spread of COVID-19.

The goal of the program is to provide Pantry Packs to 1,500 students, in Maricopa County every month during the school year, to ensure they and their families have food staples to get them through the month.

Valley of the Sun United Way will continue to provide relief for our Maricopa County neighbors struggling in these areas, respond to emerging needs, address racial, social, economic and educational inequities, and when the time is right, help our community rebuild.

Families and individuals served by A New Leaf represent populations who are the most vulnerable to the social and economic implications of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Early literacy efforts and resources that are making a difference during the pandemic.

SOUNDS Academy is a nonprofit music education organization that teaches, mentors, and provides musical experiences and opportunities for underserved youth.