Strategic Priority - BASIC NEEDS

canned goods

Individuals must have a foundation of basic needs in the present in order to have any expectation for a solid future. In the realm of BASIC NEEDS, United Way of Charlotte County is focused on addressing the following needs:

  • food
  • childcare
  • housing
  • financial assistance

VITA

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VITA volunteers posing

The VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) program offers free tax preparation and e-filing services to individuals and families with an annual household income at or below $66,000.

VITA tax preparers are certified by the IRS to ensure that clients receive all eligible Earned Income Tax Credits (EITC) and Child Tax Credits. In addition, clients save money by not having to pay fees associated with tax preparation.

Season of Sharing

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couple getting assistance

In Charlotte County, hundreds of hard-working families are one paycheck away from the threat of homelessness. Our community’s most vulnerable are struggling to simply survive and provide for their families. To break this vicious cycle, one-time emergency financial assistance for immediate basic needs is key. Assistance is available for rent, mortgage, and/or utility payments.

Season of Sharing (SOS) began in 2000 as a partnership between the Community Foundation of Sarasota County and the Herald-Tribune. Since its inception, SOS has helped over 50,000 individuals and families in Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte, and DeSoto counties.

United at Work

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employee in warehouse

United Way of Charlotte County has created a program to help strengthen the local workforce following Hurricane Ian. Lost time and staff turnover due to non-work-related issues experienced by employees directly affects productivity, work quality and therefore, the bottom line. United at Work was established to assist employees of Charlotte County businesses with unmet needs that are identified after other funds have been depleted or are no longer available. Funds will be distributed to fill unmet, hurricane-related needs for those who qualify.