United Way of Greater Kansas City is pleased to announce it will receive $3.35 million in grant funding through the Missouri Department of Economic Development, made possible through the Community Revitalization Program under the American Rescue Plan. This specific program is focused on investing in communities to encourage economic recovery and build resilience for the future. United Way will use these critical resources to assist families in Jackson, Clay and Platte Counties within four target populations: households facing eviction in Kansas City’s housing courts, vulnerable seniors, immigrants, and survivors of domestic abuse.
“We are grateful to the state of Missouri for enabling us to serve some of our community’s most vulnerable households,” said Jim MacDonald, vice president of community impact with United Way of Greater Kansas City. “This will enable families facing eviction to stay in their homes and help many unhoused families obtain new permanent homes.”
United Way of Greater Kansas City is continuing a previous three-year commitment to its eviction prevention strategic initiative. This has been accomplished in collaboration with community organizations and through partnerships with area legal service providers. More than 2500 evictions have been halted in area housing courts, preventing homelessness for more than 5,000 people. This was achieved as part of a broader federally funded effort to bring financial relief to those experiencing housing instability brought on by pandemic era economic conditions. United Way partnered with area cities and counties, along with dozens of nonprofits to deploy nearly $100 million in rent and utility assistance to more than 25,000 households.
The eviction prevention program was set to expire this year, without additional funding support. Thanks to the $3.35M from the Missouri Department of Economic Development, the program can continue through spring 2025. Funding will help stabilize households and get individuals re-housed when necessary—covering expenses ranging from utility disconnections to rental deposits and move-in expenses. Dedicated support is also being made available to assist domestic violence survivors, senior citizens and immigrant communities through United Way partner organizations.
“As we continue our work to ensure our state’s economy remains strong, these grant awards will make a real difference for local communities,” said Missouri Gov. Mike Parson, when announcing the funding allocations, including United Way’s grant. “Projects funded through this program will benefit Missourians all across our state by supporting critical services and addressing local needs.”
United Way 211 will also help identify individuals who may qualify for the program, which aims to serve more than 2,000 individuals over the next two years.
