Basic Needs

Information and referral Systems are Critical

More resources -- people's time, talent and treasure -- are needed

Demonstrate Success by Working Together Regionally

When discussing basic needs, those were three things people cared most about. From food and shelter to utility assistance and disaster relief, people overwhelmingly supported the action item on maintaining the social safety net.
One survey comment was adamant:
"Community surveys often place emphasis on issues that are getting the most attention at the moment; however, basic human needs are always a concern ... Dollars should be allocated in a way that recognize these before letting marketing and opinion trump what professionals in the nonprofit sector know about basic needs through experience and research-based data collection."

As United Way gets focused on key community issues, we know we must sustain support for the basic needs of the region. Will there be realignment of resources and changes in our approach to funding? Likely. But as a foundation to our work, critical to our mission, and in line with the region's aspirations, we know basic needs and the safety net are crucial to our long term success.

What do you think basic needs should include? How wide is the scope of services?