Policy Work

United Way galvanizes people to speak out for change. We’re amplifying individuals’ voices on important community issues and urging our public officials to fight for children, nonprofits, and working families. We provide a platform for people across our region to take meaningful action that makes a difference.

The COVID-19 pandemic has elevated the need for policy change and deep public investments to address widening inequities in our social safety net. This year, we’ve rolled up our sleeves and have been working with our government leaders to fight for emergency relief and assistance for families across our region.

United Way will continue to leverage public policy and our growing network of partners to advance an equitable recovery, centered on the needs and voices of communities that have been disproportionately affected during this crisis. Together, we can address urgent needs and activate comprehensive, long-term solutions in housing, education, and financial opportunity.

Policy Impact in 2020

• Direct Advocacy: Advocated for 5 federal COVID-19 relief bills, 19 pieces of state legislation, and 34 state budget line items.
• Public Awareness: Mobilized 23 federal/state officials to help promote and raise resources for United Way’s COVID-19 funds.
• Volunteer Engagement: Organized 541 volunteer advocates to contact their legislators in support of our COVID-19 policy priorities.

A few 2020 Policy Successes

• Successfully advocated for the passage of a $10 million stabilization fund for afterschool programs, estimated to reach 50,000 young people across the Commonwealth.
• Mobilized 80 agency partners to issue a letter to the Baker Administration, urging increased housing supports in response to the lifting of the eviction moratorium
• Organized the Council of Massachusetts United Ways (COMUW) to issue a joint letter, signed by all 14 CEOs, outlining FY21 budget priorities.  
• Coordinated meetings with 7 Congressional offices as part of Virtual Day on the Hill, advocating for additional COVID relief.

Find out how to get involved in advocating for change by visiting our Advocate page.