Feeding Local Kids Is as Simple as $10

Sometimes, the biggest changes start with the smallest gestures. On Thursday, March 5, 2026, United Way of Eastern Idaho is inviting our community to take part in Power of $10 — a one-day online giving event with one powerful goal: making sure no local elementary student goes hungry over the weekend.

Why Your Support Matters

For many families, weekends mean rest and time together. But for nearly 45% of working households in Eastern Idaho, weekends can bring stress and uncertainty. These are our ALICE neighbors — families who are Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed — working hard but still struggling to afford basic needs after paying for rent, utilities, and childcare.

When school meals aren’t available, some children face empty cupboards until Monday morning.

The Magic of the Weekend Food Bag

That’s where our Ready. Set. GO! Weekend Food Bag Program makes a difference. Each week, with the help of dedicated volunteers, we pack weekend food bags for local students in need. School counselors discreetly send these bags home with more than 200 elementary students. Each bag is filled with kid-friendly, easy-to-prepare meals and snacks — providing nourishment, stability, and peace of mind for families.

“No child should have to worry about their next meal,” says Chris Wiersema, CEO of United Way of Eastern Idaho. “Power of $10 is our community’s way of saying, ‘We’ve got your back.’ Every single cent raised goes directly toward buying food for local elementary students.”

How You Can Be a Hero in 10 Minutes

On March 5, we’re keeping it simple.

• Give $10 – Feeds one child for an entire weekend.
• Tag 10 Friends – Invite others to join the movement.
• Help Reach $10,000 – Our one-day goal to keep weekend bags filled all year long.

Be Part of the Movement

Nearly half of households in Eastern Idaho are working hard yet still struggling to make ends meet. On March 5, let’s come together to show what community care looks like. Visit unitedwayif.org/power-of-10 to donate and learn more.

Follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/unitedwayei/ for updates and ways to share the movement.

Volunteers Needed: Join Our Community Solutions Panel!

Each year, United Way of Eastern Idaho raises funds for the Community Fund through workplace giving campaigns — and every dollar stays right here in our nine-county region. These donations go directly to local nonprofits, supporting vital programs that strengthen our community in the areas of Youth Opportunity, Healthy Communities, and Financial Security.

We’re looking for passionate volunteers to serve on our Community Solutions Panel. Panel members play a crucial role: they review grant applications from local nonprofits, take part in site visits, and make funding recommendations to the United Way Board of Directors.

If you want to help shape the future of our community and make a meaningful difference, consider volunteering for the Community Solutions Panel. Your voice and expertise can help guide local funding decisions and improve lives across Eastern Idaho. Interested in joining or learning more? Email Chris Wiersema at cwiersema@unitedwayif.org