Safety Net Funding Grant

Note: Agencies that do not currently receive safety net funding are invited to attend an informational webinar to learn about the requirements and expectations of safety net funding prior to submitting an application.
United Way of Greater St. Louis
We unite people, resources and funding to help build strong and equitable communities where everyone can thrive.
United Way’s Safety Net is a collaborative network of agencies that deliver an array of essential direct services to address the region’s most pressing needs, helping families and individuals remain and work toward stability. Safety Net agencies provide direct services that address basic, urgent needs – such as access to food and housing— as well as supports that help move individuals and families toward stability, including education, health and well-being, workforce access, and financial mobility.
United Way of Greater St. Louis is now accepting applications for its Safety Net Funding cycle and invites all eligible agencies across its 16-county region in Missouri and Illinois, including those not currently receiving United Way funding, to apply. United Way equips 160 local nonprofits with vital funding and training resources to support measurable impact across its five impact areas. Organizations selected will receive a three-year contract and become part of the UWGSL member agency network.
United Way’s Impact Areas
Basic Needs Community Stability and Crisis Response Early Childhood and Youth Success  Health and Wellbeing Jobs and Financial Mobility
While needs are great across the five impact areas, United Way will use data derived from its landscape analysis of community needs to inform how service areas will be prioritized to ensure the region has access to a strong and resilient network as needs arise.

Eligibility

Must provide direct services to individuals living in at least one of the 16 counties within United Way’s geographic footprint.
The organization and specified program(s) must be operational for at least two years prior to submission.
Must be a nonprofit operating with a current federal 501(c)(3) tax determination.
Must be in good standing with the state of Missouri and Illinois, and provide a certificate of good standing dated on or after October 17, 2025
Must have required financial documentation listed on the application.