United Way invests $2.4 million to address needs in the Midlands

Columbia, SC (May 19, 2021) – United Way of the Midlands is investing $2.4 million in grants for its 2021-2022 fiscal year to improve the health, education and financial stability of everyone in the Midlands.

Grants will be awarded to 31 programs in Calhoun, Fairfield, Lexington, Newberry, Orangeburg and Richland counties and will focus on early-childhood literacy, ending homelessness and improving access to health care.

“United Way programs impact thousands of lives each year, and we are committed to investing in those programs to create meaningful change for children and families throughout the Midlands,” said Sara Fawcett, United Way of the Midlands President and CEO.

In the area of education, one of the United Way grant recipients, Lexington County First Steps, will receive a grant investment of $10,000. Lexington County First Steps works to ensure children are prepared to perform at an optimum level when they begin school. The organization operates with collaborative efforts from parents, caregivers and the community. 

Among this year’s health-related grants, United Way is investing $140,000 in The Free Medical Clinic, Inc. The clinic provides healthcare, free of charge, to residents who cannot afford it and do not have health insurance. The Free Medical Clinic offers primary care, limited on-site specialty care, pharmaceuticals and patient education.  

And an example of investment in financial stability includes United Way’s $275,000 grant to Salvation Army of the Midlands through a new partnership with the Siemer Institute to work with local school districts to help families with children struggling with homelessness build paths to economic self-sufficiency.

“When we invest in these programs, one more person receives a warm meal, one more child has a safe space to learn and grow, and one more person has a comfortable place to lay their head at night,” said Fawcett. 

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About United Way of the Midlands 

United Way of the Midlands is the most organized, efficient and accountable system for investing in the community. With more than 70 Community Impact Partners, United Way works to identify and respond to the critical human service needs of Calhoun, Fairfield, Lexington, Newberry, Orangeburg and Richland counties. Funds are raised through workplace campaigns, grant writing and individual donations. For more information, please visit www.uway.org.