|
UNITED WAY OF PASSAIC COUNTY
Mobilizing the caring power of community so all can thrive
Spring Newsletter
| | |
Women United Fundraiser Luncheon
Join us on October 8, 2025, at the beautiful Preakness Hills Country Club for our first ever Women United fundraiser luncheon. We will be honoring changemakers, business leaders, and advocates from across the region.
Our keynote speaker will be Ana L. Oliveira, President & CEO of The New York Women’s Foundation. Her leadership and advocacy have empowered countless women and families—and her voice will no doubt leave us all inspired to make a difference.
Mark your calendars and stay tuned for more details.
Sponsorships Packages are available on our Website
Ticket sales will begin mid August.
*Open to all who are interested in the topic
| | |
Celebrating a Record-Breaking Tax Season for Passaic County Families!
Thanks to the dedication of our VITA volunteers, the backing of our community partners, and the generosity of supporters like you, the 2025 tax season was our most impactful yet.
Through United Way of Passaic County’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, we completed 2,000 tax returns for local individuals and families—bringing back an incredible $2.5 million in federal refunds to the community. That’s a 40% increase from last year!
These refunds aren’t just numbers—they represent real financial relief. Nearly half came from federal tax credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit, and the Education Credit. Altogether, this work created a $3.8 million economic impact—money that stays local to support essentials like food, rent, and childcare.
| | |
This year, we also expanded to Clifton with a new VITA site, made possible by the support of Assemblywoman Alixon Collazo-Gills. Her leadership helped us reach even more families across the county.
Behind the scenes, over 60 trained and certified volunteers made it all happen—giving their time and energy to ensure more residents could access the refunds they deserve.
Together, we’re making tax season a time of hope and opportunity.
| | |
| | |
Free Summer Meals
School is out for the summer, but we've partnered with Paterson Public School and Clifton Public Schools to let the Passaic County community know which sites are offering free and nutritious breakfast and lunch for teens and children under 18 years old.
Food insecurity increases in the summer months as many families rely on school meals for their children.
We want to continue to make sure that the residents of Passaic County have the basic resources they need to build healthy and whole lives.
| | | |
Summer Meals Cards
We have also been promoting Summer Meals cards for families. This card provides $120 per eligible child, for the summer, that can go towards nutritious groceries to continue combatting food insecurity.
Families are able to apply for Summer Meals cards by filling out the school meals application on their school district website.
| | |
Honoring the Next Generation of Public Servants
Three Passaic County Graduates Awarded Vincent D. Pavese Scholarship
We are proud to celebrate three exceptional high school graduates from Passaic County who have been awarded the Vincent D. Pavese Scholarship—a tribute to a man whose legacy continues to inspire service and leadership in our community.
These young leaders have demonstrated a deep commitment to giving back and are pursuing careers in public service fields like healthcare, education, government, and law. We are honored to support their journeys:
As we honor these scholars, we’re reminded that the future of our community is in good hands—and thanks to the legacy of Vincent D. Pavese, that future is rooted in service, compassion, and leadership.
| | | | |
Autumn, a graduate of Paterson STEAM High School, will attend Hampton University to become a nurse anesthetist.
“Real care begins long before entering a hospital room. It begins with being present, paying attention to the needs in your community, and choosing to make differences—even in small ways.”
| | | | | |
Jules, a graduate of West Milford High School, will attend the University of Delaware to study international relations on a pre-law track.
“I will bring justice to those who have been wronged—impacting lives and being an outlet for people who do not have one otherwise.”
| | | | | |
Elianny, a graduate of the School of Education and Training, will attend Ramapo College to study neuroscience.
“One of my favorite quotes is from Martin Luther King Jr. ‘Everyone can be great because anybody can serve.’ I strive to make that my life motto, and I know a medical career will steer me in that direction.”
| | | |
Our Reading Buddies Are Closing The Reading Gap at School 15
Reading by the end of third grade is a critical milestone. Children who aren’t reading on grade level by then are four times more likely to drop out of high school, and face higher risks of incarceration, lower lifetime earnings, and shorter life expectancy.
At School 15, only 10% of third graders are reading at grade level—far below the state average of 42%. But our incredible Reading Buddies are making a real difference.
By providing one-on-one support, Reading Buddies help students build skills, confidence, and a love for learning. Here's the impact:
-
77% reached expected growth, vs. 59% of non-participants
-
100% of participating kindergarteners met grade-level standards, compared to 63% of their peers
-
100% of teachers said the program improved reading skills, confidence, and engagement
| | | | Your giving back makes a real difference! | |
Become a Community Champion
As government and state funding will be dwindling, the needs in Passaic County will increase. We are dedicated to making sure all in Passaic County thrive, and united, we can make this happen.
With your monthly contribution, we are able to provide the basic needs of the 50% of Passaic County residents who are struggling to make ends meet.
| | | | | |
