United Way Shifts Funding Model, Pauses New Grants Through 2025

United Way Wayne and Holmes Counties told community partners on December 12 that it would shift from a pledge based funding model to a cash on hand approach beginning in 2026. The board paused any new grant applications for the rest of 2025 while staff complete updated grant criteria, eligibility rules and scoring rubrics for a refreshed spring 2026 grant cycle. United Way provided one time unrestricted support to core community partners as the organization moves through this reset.

The move affects local nonprofits that rely on pledge forecasts for operating and program planning. To soften the immediate impact, United Way said it will continue to fund community priorities through Volunteer Investment Team grants, board designated funds and the Operation SNAP GAP initiative that has distributed smaller awards to local food pantries and emergency providers. The research notes list several 2025 awards given through the Volunteer Investment Team and board designated funds, including American Red Cross at $30,000, Anazao Community Partners at $92,724, Catholic Charities at $82,000, Children’s Advocacy Center at $60,945, Goodwill Industries at $55,000, OneEighty Inc. at $135,000 and Viola Startzman Clinic at $100,000. The seven listed awards total $555,669, in addition to numerous smaller SNAP GAP awards.

The board framed the reset as a move to increase transparency and better align investments with current community needs. Operationally, a cash on hand model reduces revenue timing risk for United Way and gives the organization more control over grant flows. For recipient organizations, the change will require adapting budgeting practices away from relying on pledged future dollars and toward more short term cash planning. United Way leaders said the transition is intended to strengthen long term sustainability for both the funder and the nonprofit network.

Local residents who rely on services from food pantries, emergency providers and health clinics are likely to see continuity of key programs because of the one time support and ongoing targeted grants. Nonprofit leaders seeking future funding were directed to check uwwh.org and United Way Wayne and Holmes social channels for updates about 2026 funding opportunities.