Souris Valley United Way
As the new year begins, Souris Valley United Way is entering the final weeks of its annual fundraising campaign, and reflecting on the meaningful impact local dollars made throughout the community in 2025.
This year’s campaign goal is $625,000, funding programs that support children, families, and individuals across the region. With the campaign now 80% funded, Souris Valley United Way leaders are encouraging the community to help carry the effort across the finish line before the campaign concludes at the end of January.
“Our work continues year-round, but the annual campaign determines how fully we’re able to support local needs,” Christy Miller, Souris Valley United Way Executive Director shared. “The generosity we’ve seen so far is so encouraging, and these final weeks are critical.”
Funds raised through the annual campaign stay local and support a combination of United Way–led initiatives and grant funding for partner organizations. In 2025, Souris Valley United Way provided grant funding to 10 local nonprofit agencies, helping sustain programs that address food insecurity, safety, education, and family stability.
One of the most visible internal programs supported through the campaign is Backpack Buddies, which provides weekend meals to students who may otherwise go without food when school is not in session. Throughout 2025, the program served more than 620 students each week, ensuring children had consistent access to nutrition beyond the classroom.
Early childhood education and literacy also remained a focus. Through its free book distribution program, Souris Valley United Way provided monthly books to more than 2,000 children ages 0–5, helping foster early literacy skills and support families during a child’s most formative years.
In addition to these initiatives, campaign funds helped provide hygiene items, emergency assistance, and support services for individuals and families facing difficult circumstances. These services often go unseen but are essential in helping neighbors maintain stability during times of need.
One of the strengths of the Souris Valley United Way model is how individual contributions translate directly into measurable local impact. Donations of all sizes play a role in sustaining programs, including:
$8 feeding a child for an entire weekend through Backpack Buddies
$32 buying one year’s worth of books for a local child
$65 providing one night of safe shelter for a family escaping domestic violence
$203 covering one hour of trauma therapy for a child who experienced abuse
Each contribution helps ensure services remain available and responsive to community needs.
With the campaign now in its final weeks, Souris Valley United Way leaders are emphasizing the importance of finishing strong.
“As we approach the end of our campaign season, every gift helps close the remaining gap,” organizers said. “Reaching our goal means stability for local programs and the people who rely on them.”
Community members and businesses are encouraged to make a donation, fulfill pledges, or learn more about workplace giving opportunities before the campaign concludes on January 31st.
Souris Valley United Way remains focused on its mission of bringing people together to create lasting change. As the campaign enters its final stretch, supporters are reminded that when a community unites around shared goals, the impact extends far beyond the campaign itself.
To learn more about the work done in our area or to make a donation, visit svunitedway.com or follow Souris Valley United Way on social media.
