United Response Fund

An emergency response fund activated by Heart of West Michigan United Way to provide rapid support to organizations facing immediate strain during community crises. Created in response to the November 2025 federal SNAP benefits delay.

Geographic Scope: Allegan, Kent, and Ottawa counties (Michigan)

Focus Areas:

• Food access and food security
• Immediate crisis support for families at risk
• Poverty reduction and financial stability

Program Details:

• Activated to address urgent community needs
• Direct investment in local food access programs facing immediate strain
• Build support pathways so families don't fall deeper into crisis
• Mobilize donors, partners, and volunteers to strengthen the safety-net system

Fund Status: Remains active as families continue to recover from the SNAP delay impact. Additional contributions directed to food access partners for sustained work.

2025 Response Results:

• Over $65,000 raised within days
• 100% of dollars deployed to frontline partners
• 22 programs awarded grants across Allegan, Kent, and Ottawa counties
• Partners funded included: Christian Neighbors, Community Action, Community Action House, Harvest Stand Ministries, UCOM, North Kent Connect, The Other Way, Community Food Club, New City Neighbors, SECOM, YMCA Veggie Van, Streams of Hope, Hand2Hand, Safe Haven, and others

Major Donors (2025 Response):

• Gun Lake Casino
• Amway
• Acrisure
• Independent Bank
• WZZM13
• Union Bank
• The Frey Foundation
• Individual community donors

Contact Information:

• KENT COUNTY: 616.459.6281, 118 Commerce Ave SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
• OTTAWA COUNTY: 616.396.7811, 115 Clover St, Suite 301, Holland, MI 49423
• ALLEGAN COUNTY: 269.673.6545, 650 Grand Street, Allegan, MI 49010

Background: Created in response to November 2025 federal SNAP benefits delay that left thousands of households without critical food assistance. Demonstrates United Way's ability to mobilize rapid community response to urgent needs.