United Way of Central Indiana in Hendricks County
For nearly 60 years, United Way of Central Indiana has been serving people and families in Hendricks County.
Since 1967, we’ve worked with organizations throughout the county to meet the needs of our most vulnerable neighbors. Together, we remove barriers and provide life-changing resources to tackle generational poverty.
Over the last six years, United Way has invested over $5 million in grants in Hendricks County and partnered with 23 nonprofits and schools.
Community Need in Hendricks County
Some 27% of Hendricks County households cannot afford a basic household budget.
That’s more than 18,000 households that are in or near poverty.
The number of households in need in the county has increased by 26% since 2018 – the second largest growth in this population in United Way’s seven-county service area.
In Hendricks County:
1 in 5 households are burdened by housing costs, meaning they spend 30% or more of their income on housing.
52% of households under age 25 can’t afford the basics.
Learn more about the need and dig into the data:
Our Work in Hendricks 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:
- Hendricks County Workforce Coalition
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