How much funding does United Response Fund provide?

United Response Fund provides Varied (over $65,000 raised with 22 programs funded) in funding.

When is the deadline for United Response Fund?

This grant has a rolling deadline or the deadline has not been announced.

United Response Fund

HEART OF WEST MICHIGAN UNITED WAY

Foundation One-time Grants for Nonprofits Food Security Grants Hunger Grants Poverty Alleviation Grants

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Funding Amount

Varied (over $65,000 raised with 22 programs funded)

Deadline

Rolling / Open

Grant Type

foundation

Overview

United Response Fund

Overview: 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.