Community Coordinated Care for Children is one of 32 organizations selected for a Heart of Florida United Way investment of more than $2 million to support vital programs in Orange, Osceola, and Seminole counties. It marks a key moment in Heart of Florida United Way’s 85-year legacy of service and shows the organization’s strong commitment to the region’s pressing needs.

The $2 million will support groups focused on education and basic needs assistance. This ensures that essential resources reach those who need them most. Heart of Florida United Way’s ongoing investments build on decades of partnerships. They reflect the organization’s focus on Health, Education, Financial Stability, and Basic Needs. By backing programs that align with these pillars, Heart of Florida United Way can expand its reach and enhance the impact on individuals and families in Central Florida.

The 32 organizations in this investment cycle include: Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida; Catholic Charities of Central Florida, Inc.; Christian Service Center of Central Florida, Inc.; City Year Orlando; Coalition for the Homeless of Central Florida; Community Coordinated Care for Children, Inc. (4C); Early Learning Coalition of Seminole; Elevate Orlando; Grace Medical Home; Harbor House of Central Florida; Healthcare Center for the Homeless, Inc.; Hebni Nutrition Consultants; Help Now of Osceola; JFS Orlando; Jobs Partnership of Florida; Meals on Wheels; New Image Youth Center; Orlando Day Nursery; Osceola Council on Aging; Pace Center for Girls; Safehouse of Seminole; Salvation Army, Orlando Area Command; Salvation Army, Sanford Corp; Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida; Seniors First, Inc.; The Center Orlando; The Foundation for Seminole County Public Schools; The Howard Phillips Center for Children and Families; The Sharing Center; United Against Poverty; Winter Park Day Nursery; and Zebra Youth.

“For 85 years, Heart of Florida United Way has been a beacon of hope and a catalyst for change,” said Jeff Hayward, Heart of Florida United Way CEO. “We remain steadfast in our dedication to empowering those who are employed but face financial hardship, living paycheck to paycheck. As we celebrate this milestone, we are also looking forward to the future, reinforcing our commitment to our core pillars and strengthening our impact, which will ultimately lead to stronger futures for everyone in our communities.”

Heart of Florida United Way mainly serves ALICE, which stands for Asset Limited, Income Constrained, yet Employed. Common jobs for ALICE include cashiers, customer service representatives, home health aides, and physical laborers. Heart of Florida United Way emphasizes that ALICE individuals and families are everyday community members you interact with regularly. They are often one expense away from crisis.

“Heart of Florida United Way is committed to recognizing and addressing the needs of this vital, yet overlooked part of our community,” said Kelly Astro, Heart of Florida United Way’s Senior Vice President of Community Impact. “It’s crucial to understand that ALICE represents the hardworking, everyday people who form the backbone of our community. The misconception that hardship only affects those who are unhoused or unemployed overlooks the reality that many, especially those with multiple jobs, are struggling to make ends meet. It’s important to recognize the spectrum of those needing support extends far beyond traditional stereotypes.”