United Way of Central Indiana in Hancock County
United Way of Central Indiana may have been born in Indianapolis, but did you know that Hancock was the first county after Marion to join our network?
Hancock County has been part of United Way since 1962.
For more than 60 years, we’ve partnered with organizations across the county to meet the needs of our most vulnerable neighbors, remove barriers and provide life-changing resources to tackle generational poverty.
Over the last six years, United Way has invested over $1.5 million in grants in Hancock County and partnered with 26 nonprofits and schools.
Community Need in Hancock County
Some 27% of Hancock County households cannot afford a basic household budget.
That’s more than 8,800 households that are in or near poverty.
In Hancock County:
Nearly 1 in 5 households are burdened by housing costs, meaning they spend 30% or more of their income on housing.
Half of households under age 25 can’t afford the basics.
Learn more about the need and dig into the data:
Our Work in Hancock County
United Way’s programs combine direct community impact with strong local leadership to create lasting change.
Community Leadership
Our commitment goes beyond grants. Our team members serve on key local initiatives:
- Hancock County Housing Taskforce
Direct Impact through ReadUp
More than a decade of partnership in Hancock County delivering ReadUP to support third graders with essential literacy skills.
- During the 2024–2025 school year, 32 volunteers worked with 31 students at Weston Elementary and Harris Elementary schools.
"This United Way Basic Needs grant means stability and relief for Meals on Wheels of Hancock County and the hundreds of neighbors who count on us each day. With this support, we can continue providing nutritious meals, safety checks, and human connection to those who might otherwise go without.
“The grant helps bridge the funding gap for our indigent and low-income clients, ensuring that no one in Hancock County is left hungry or forgotten."
– Lynda Kosh, President and CEO, Meals on Wheels of Hancock County