In The News

United Way of MPM to Invest Over $482,000 in Community Programs

Zanesville, Ohio, June 12, 2023 – United Way of Muskingum, Perry, and Morgan Counties (MPM) will be investing $482,439 in local community programs over the next 12 months in four different focus areas: financial empowerment, housing stability, food security, and education.   

The majority of these funds ($423,398) were raised through the annual fundraising campaign. United Way of MPM also facilitates the Emergency Food and Shelter Program (EFSP) which brings $59,041 to programs in Muskingum, Perry, and Morgan Counties.

Meg Deedrick, United Way of MPM Executive Director, states, “Our current social investment portfolio is a response to the community conditions we have studied.  For example, we have seen an increase in the use of food pantries and requests for housing and utilities assistance, so we’ve invested in programs that will increase access to fresh, healthy foods and resources to keep families in a safe, stable environment.  The positive outcomes of every program we are partnering with will combat the challenges we are now facing and send ripple effects throughout the entire community.”

United Way of MPM has the capacity to fund these programs and initiatives through the combined contributions of individuals and businesses to its annual campaign. If you would like to help fight for the health, education, and financial stability of our community, you can visit our website to donate, www.unitedwayofmpm.org.

Muskingum Mobility Management is one of the programs receiving funding. Nichole Silver, Mobility Manager of Muskingum and Guernsey Counties, said, “This investment from United Way is a critical piece to the Muskingum County community and the ability of the Mobility Manager to help those who fall in the gaps of services provided. United Way’s partnership will allow many residents to get the access to healthcare they need and deserve without the financial burden. The support they provide is always appreciated and never goes unnoticed.”

For a full list of funded partners and programs, please visit our website, www.unitedwayofmpm.org.  United Way of MPM recommends that any organization interested in applying for funding call the Community Impact Coordinator, Katie Grubbs 740-454-6872.

United Way of MPM and NiSource Increase Capacity of Area Food Pantries

United Way of Muskingum, Perry, and Morgan Counties Funds $20,000 to Muskingum County Food Pantries through NiSource Charitable Foundation grant

Zanesville, Ohio March 23, 2023 – United Way of Muskingum, Perry, and Morgan Counties (UWMPM) strives to reduce food insecurity by increasing access to food for our community members. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and other public assistance programs are being restored back to pre-pandemic levels. To make certain community members have access to food, UWMPM is partnering with NiSource/Columbia Gas Foundation to invest $20,000 to build capacity of area food pantries. The initial payment will be utilized to guarantee food pantries are stocked for community members.  Remaining funds will purchase food vouchers to be distributed through several community partner organizations.

Meg Deedrick, UWMPM Executive Director, states, “Along with our community partners, United Way of MPM has been monitoring the impact of pandemic resources and resources needed for the transition to pre-pandemic levels since July 2021. We are extremely grateful for our partnership with Columbia Gas/NiSource which has enabled us to direct additional financial resources to meet the needs of our friends and neighbors.”

UWMPM has the capacity to fund this initiative through the NiSource Charitable Foundation, Columbia Gas. NiSource provides funding for non-profit organizations that help create strong and sustainable communities. NiSource’s areas of giving include, safety, economic & workforce development, environmental stewardship, STEM and energy education, and basic needs & hardship assistance. UWMPM is very grateful for this partnership and the opportunity to continue to serve our community.

Stephanie Merkle, Columbia Gas of Ohio Community Engagement Manger, states, “At Columbia Gas, we are dedicated to helping provide basic needs to those who need it most. Our perspective is shaped by the connection between utilities and food, and we believe both are basic human needs. We’re proud to partner with United Way of Muskingum, Morgan, and Perry Counites to limit food restrictions while increasing access to fresh and nutritious foods throughout the area. So many of our neighbors don’t know where their next meal will come from – a fact that should be unacceptable to all of us.”

Keely Warden, Muskingum County Hunger Network Executive Committee Member, states, “Everyone involved with the Muskingum County Hunger Network is so very grateful for the emergency support being invested with us from the United Way of Muskingum, Perry, and Morgan Counties. The extra SNAP benefits that were given to families during the Covid pandemic ended at end of February. We are not sure what the future will hold for the individuals and families we serve but the Network will be here to help. It is reassuring to know that community partners, such as the United Way, are aware and ready to take care of our community. Knowing the Muskingum County Hunger Network could face food shortages our local United Way was first in asking “How can we help?”  Everyone involved with our Hunger Network extends a huge thank you to our local United Way.”

To access Muskingum County food pantries, dial 2-1-1 or visit www.unitedwayofmpm.org. Also, on the website you can donate to help fight for the health, education, and financial stability of every person in every community!

United Way of MPM Continues to Provide 2-1-1

United Way of Muskingum, Perry, and Morgan Counties selects a new 2-1-1 provider!  

Zanesville, Ohio December 21, 2022 – United Way of Muskingum, Perry, and Morgan Counties (UWMPM) has selected a new 2-1-1 provider and wants to keep the community informed. UWMPM sent out request for proposals, reviewed the proposals, and decided on a provider that is best suited for our community. United Way’s HelpLink 2-1-1 will be the new provider for Muskingum, Perry, and Morgan counties. UWMPM chose HelpLink 2-1-1 because of their experience serving multi county regions and they are the most cost-effective provider. The caller should not experience any changes in accessing information and referral services to local social service agencies. HelpLink 2-1-1 will be using the same data base to ensure referrals are streamlined and accessible to community members.

Meg Deedrick, UWMPM Executive Director, states, “United Way of Muskingum, Perry, and Morgan Counties brought 2-1-1 to our tri-county region in 2009 and has been the sole funder over the past 13 years. It has evolved significantly in that time, growing from an in-house initiative to being served by a multi-county call center. We are proud to continue this service as efficiently and effectively as possible for thousands of individuals and families.”

UWMPM has the capacity to fund this initiative through the combined contributions of individuals and businesses to its annual campaign. In 2021, individuals and businesses pledged $622,159 to help achieve the health, education, and financial stability goals for the community. UWMPM is grateful of the continued support of the community especially through a difficult year and looks forward to utilizing donor dollars to improve lives of thousands of friends and neighbors.

Tom Kelley, United Way of Greater Dayton Area President & CEO, states, “HelpLink 2-1-1 is currently a long-time provider of 2-1-1 services across a nine-county footprint in Ohio.  We provide this AIRS accredited service, professionally answering over 50,000 calls in a typical year 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.  We look forward to working in partnership with United Way of Muskingum, Perry, and Morgan Counties to seamlessly provide these services in a transparent manner that connects them with their local service provider communities.  Our goal at HelpLink 2-1-1 is to embrace citizens wherever they live throughout our service footprint and create positive solutions to their needs.”

Please feel free to dial 2-1-1 or 844-253-1161 to access this service, it is free to everyone! If you have any problems or questions, please call UWMPM at 740-454-6872. To view all UWMPM funded programs visit www.unitedwayofmpm.org. Also, on the website you can donate to help fight for the health, education, and financial stability of every person in every community!

United Way of MPM Continues to Invest in the Community

United Way of Muskingum, Perry, and Morgan Counties investing in local students’ education.

Zanesville, Ohio November 30, 2022 – United Way of Muskingum, Perry, and Morgan Counties (UWMPM) will be investing $21,000 back into the community. By partnering with local school districts to make an impact in education. This investment will be focused on school supplies for local students, to ensure they are well equipped and able to learn during class. This investment will help local youth achieve their potential and increase their academic performance.

Meg Deedrick, UWMPM Executive Director, states, “Area students will be feeling the effects of the pandemic for many years to come.  This is one of the reasons why UWMPM wants to provide them with tools to bridge existing gaps and eliminate barriers to goal achievement. We are proud to partner with our donors and our educators to help make this happen.”
UWMPM has the capacity to fund this initiative through the combined contributions of individuals and businesses to its annual campaign. In 2021, individuals and businesses pledged $622,159 to help achieve the health, education, and financial stability goals for the community. UWMPM is grateful of the continued support of the community especially through a difficult year and looks forward to utilizing donor dollars to improve lives of thousands of friends and neighbors.

“It’s a wonderful partnership, “said Steve Foreman, Assistant Superintendent of Zanesville City Schools. “At this time of year our schools and students find themselves running low on supplies purchased at the beginning of the school year. This influx of needed items will mitigate such shortages and support learning.”

If there is a local school district interested in partnering with UWMPM, please reach out to the Community Impact Coordinator, Katie Grubbs 740-454-6872 to discuss the opportunity. To view all UWMPM funded partners and programs visit www.unitedwayofmpm.org. Also, on the website you can donate to help fight for the health, education, and financial stability of every person in every community!

United Way of MPM to Invest $500,000 in Community Programs

Zanesville, Ohio, June 9, 2022 – United Way of Muskingum, Perry, and Morgan Counties (MPM) will be investing $500,000 in 2022 through three different funding cycles. In Phase One, United Way of MPM will spend $250,000 and focus on 15 initiatives that achieve goals in financial stability and education.

During Phase Two, United Way of MPM is focusing on improving community health by investing approximately $200,000 in collaborations with local health providers and assessments to advance health improvement programs.

Finally, the organization has directed $50,000 to Community Impact funding, making smaller grants for emerging needs throughout the year.

Additionally, United Way of MPM has distributed $7,322 in designations.
Total investment will exceed $500,000.

Meg Deedrick, United Way of MPM Executive Director, states: “We are acutely aware – both from formal data and anecdotal experience – of the difficulties we are facing in our households as well as our communities. Therefore, the Board of Directors, acting on the recommendations of our community-based Investment Committee, has made funding decisions to lessen these burdens and maximize impact.” She adds, “Every program receiving Phase One funding ensures people have enough food to feed their families and have increased access to assistance with housing costs and utilities or long-term asset building opportunities.”

Habitat for Humanity of Southeast Ohio is one of the programs receiving funding. Kenneth Oehlers, Executive Director, states “This investment from United Way is key in our ability to build and repair homes for more families in need.  With rising materials costs, our partnership with United Way has helped us continue to provide permanent housing solutions to residents in Muskingum, Perry, and Morgan Counties.”

United Way of MPM has the capacity to fund these programs and initiatives through the combined contributions of individuals and businesses to its annual campaign. In 2021, individuals and businesses pledged $622,159 to help achieve the health, education, and financial stability goals for the community.

John Creek, United Way of MPM donor and Investment Committee member, stated, “I have been involved with United Way for over 30 years and been involved with investment decisions for all that time.  I give to United Way of MPM because it is the one entity to which I can donate and be assured that my money will be allocated to deserving service providers in a fair and equitable way that yields the greatest impact.  I am very familiar with the leadership at United Way of MPM, and they give me the utmost confidence and trust that my donation will be spent wisely.”

United Way of MPM Invests in Lifesaving Technology

Muskingum County Library System has been awarded $4,389 towards the purchase and installation of Automatic External Defibrillators in three local branches.

Zanesville, Ohio November 9, 2021 – United Way of Muskingum, Perry, and Morgan Counties (MPM) strives to provide quality access to medical and mental health services and education. With the investment of $4,389 to purchase and install Automatic External Defibrillators (AED) United Way of MPM will be providing lifesaving access to medical equipment across Muskingum County. The investment will provide AEDs and their installation in three Muskingum County Library branches, Dresden, South Zanesville, and New Concord. Once the AEDs are installed all Muskingum County Library, employees at those locations will be trained to utilize an AED, in case of a cardiac emergency.

Jeffrey Cornett, Grant Writer (MCLS) said, “The Muskingum County Library System (MCLS) appreciates the support of the United Way of Muskingum, Perry, and Morgan Counties (UWMPM). The Community Impact grant award will allow the MCLS to purchase additional Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) to offer life-saving devices to more branch library locations across Muskingum County.”

The American Heart Association stated that 475,000 Americans die from cardiac arrest per year and 350,000 of those are out of the hospital cardiac arrests. Considering MCLS served almost 320,000 people in 2019, there is a significant probability of a cardiac emergency at a library location. With the investment made by United Way of MPM the Muskingum County Library System can be prepared in the event of a cardiac emergency, educate employees, and provide the community with cardiac health awareness information.

Cathy Sorensen RN BSN, Clinical Coordinator for Cardiovascular Administration at Genesis Healthcare System stated that, “There are six links in the chain of survival when a person suffers a cardiac arrest. Effective CPR followed by the rapid use of an AED are vital in the links of the chain of survival. It is extremely important that the public has access to an AED when needed. I am excited to see the MCLS obtain the AEDs for the citizens of Muskingum County.”

If you are interested in other United Way of MPM funded programs, feel free to visit our website at www.unitedwayofmpm.org or give United Way of MPM a call at 740-454-6872. On our website you can also donate to help fight for the health, education, and financial stability of every person in every community!

About United Way of Muskingum, Perry, and Morgan Counties: Since 1954 UWMPM has empowered local people to make the most of what they have through outcome-based initiatives, and investment in local programs. UWMPM’s focus is on improving the health, education, and financial stability of every person in all our communities. If you would like to donate, volunteer, or apply for funding, please call 740-454-6872, or visit unitedwayofmpm.org.

United Way of MPM Invests $447,881 to Improve Health, Education, and Financial Stability of the Community

Zanesville, Ohio June 11, 2021 – United Way of Muskingum, Perry, and Morgan Counties (UWMPM) has committed $427,000 in community funding for 2021. The agency will invest $202,454 in twelve local programs in its first round of funding with an emphasis on providing safety net solutions. Over 2,000 community members will be impacted by this investment which will improve health, education, and financial stability for the program participants.

UWMPM will offer two additional funding cycles, Phase Two and Community Impact funding. With Phase Two funding, the agency will broaden the impact on the community by investing in initiatives that foster empowerment and independence for individuals and families. Meg Deedrick, UWMPM Executive Director, estimates that there will be a minimum of $200,000 dedicated to this work. In addition, the agency will invest an additional $25,000 in Community Impact funding which is designated for programs with urgent, unique needs under $5,000. Eligible applicants can submit funding requests at any time. These totals do not include an additional $20,427 in donor designations that the organization has already started to distribute. For information on applicant eligibility, availability of funds, and programs currently receiving investment, visit unitedwayofmpm.org.

UWMPM has the capacity to fund these programs and initiatives through the combined contributions of individuals and businesses to its annual campaign. In 2020, individuals and businesses pledged $612,183 to help achieve the health, education and financial stability goals for the community. Cecilia Schmeltzer, UWMPM donor and Investment Committee member, stated, "I choose to donate to United Way of Muskingum, Perry, and Morgan Counties because I know they will fairly distribute the funds to meaningful causes and programs which will have the most impact. Additionally, I have trust in their leadership and know that it is a worthy organization for spending my charitable money."

Envoy George Bates, Salvation Army Director said, “We appreciate partnering again this year with the United Way. Their support helps us meet the needs of others in our Soup Kitchen, Emergency Shelter, and Housing & Utility Programs. With their support, together we are able to meet needs, heal hurts and change lives!”

Jenna, a Zane State student who benefited from the Emergency Grant program funded by UWMPM stated, “Thank you to everyone who has donated and help me get this ball rolling for my future! I am forever grateful to Zane State College and United Way for making this happen for me.”

Deedrick stated that UWMPM is grateful of the continued support of the community, especially through a very difficult year, and looks forward to utilizing donor dollars to improve lives of thousands of friends and neighbors.

United Way of Muskingum, Perry, and Morgan Counties is a local 501(c) (3) health and human services organization which fights for the health, education, and financial stability of every person in every community. For more information about United Way of Muskingum, Perry, and Morgan Counties including how to make a contribution, please log on to their website, unitedwayofmpm.org.

NON-PROFITS COLLABORATING IN PERRY COUNTY

Local Community Action and United Way agencies working together on pandemic-related programs

NEW LEXINGTON, OH – This spring, two organizations teamed up to provide resources to Perry County Residents.

Hocking Athens Perry Community Action (HAPCAP) partnered with United Way of Muskingum, Perry, and Morgan counties to distribute over 100 COVID-19 Wellness Bags to residents in Perry County. The bags held an assortment of personal protective equipment, personal hygiene items, and tools to assist in coping with the ongoing pandemic. The bags also contained printed information on vaccination and self-care resources.

“We understand that this has been a tough year on all of us and our hope is that we can continue to provide resources to our Perry County families,” says Clarissa Reynolds, HAPCAP’s Perry County Community Resource Navigator. “We are grateful to the United Way’s Community Investment Fund for providing us the opportunity to help the residents in Perry County.”

HAPCAP also provides a variety of programs to assist Perry County residents, ranging from child development to housing needs. Assistance is available for rent, mortgage, water and other utilities, and HAPCAP’s Corning and New Lexington Head Start Centers are actively recruiting families for free preschool services. HAPCAP is also the parent organization of the Southeast Ohio Foodbank. A list of Perry County member food pantries is available at hapcap.org.

For more information on HAPCAP’s programs, please contact Clarissa Reynolds via email at clarissa.reynolds@hapcap.org, or at (740) 342-4113.
For information on the United Way of Muskingum, Perry and Morgan Counties, please visit www.unitedwayofmpm.org

Park National Bank Fuels United Way’s Community Empowerment Efforts Again

Zanesville, Ohio Park National Bank has announced their United Way of Muskingum Perry and Morgan Counties (UWMPM) fundraising Campaign total of $74,926.58. UWMPM will invest this money in local programs and initiatives that promote health, education, and financial stability.
 
The funds from Park National Bank come from 3 sources.
• Employee Payroll deduction – Employees donate a portion each paycheck to UWMPM over the course of the year.
• Corporate donation – Park National Bank determines a total amount that bank will donate each year.
• Internal Fundraisers – Dedicated volunteers set up and operate creative fundraisers such as raffles, auctions, etc.
 
Tori White, of Park National Bank  explained their fundraising effort: “Despite the challenges of 2020 we were able to shift the focus of our fundraisers to accommodate both those working in the office and from home. We are proud of the results--our employees are truly dedicated to giving back to the communities we serve.”
 
“Park came through once again. The employees came through by supporting the United Way and because of their investment in us we were able to meet the needs that we anticipated and those we couldn’t have dreamed of at this time last year.” - Meg Deedrick UWMPM Executive Director
 
UWMPM looks for to using the funds raised in the next year to both continue to support safety net programs and focus on empowerment programs and activities – programs that promote health, education, and financial stability for people who are not necessarily in need of emergency support.
 
Some empowerment activities UWMPM will support and provide include: financial literacy courses, home cooking education, tax preparation assistance, and more.

About United Way of Muskingum, Perry and Morgan Counties: Since 1954 UWMPM has empowered local people to make the most of what they have through outcome based initiatives, and investment in local programs. UWMPM’s focus is on improving the health, education, and financial stability of every person in all our communities. If you would like to donate, volunteer, or apply for funding, please call 740-454-6872, or visit unitedwayofmpm.org.

United Way of MPM Invests in Student Success

Zanesville, Ohio March 8, 2021 – United Way of Muskingum, Perry, and Morgan Counties (MPM) awarded Zane State College an additional 5,000 for the Emergency Grant Program. The Emergency Grant Program provides small grants to Zane State students who face unexpected financial hardships, preventing students from finishing a college education. United Way presented Zane State College with a $5,000 check on Monday, March 8 th , 2021 at the Zane State College campus.

Dr. Elizabeth Kline, Zane State College Chief Student Affairs Officer said, “We appreciate the United Way for supporting our students. This funding helps provide one-time assistance to prevent these types of emergencies for derailing students’ long-term educational goals.”

United Way has provided funding for the Emergency Grant Program for over three years. This year United Way as awarded Zane State College a total of $12,000, to assist college students. In 2020, the Emergency Grant Program allowed students to continue higher education by approving sixteen students with financial assistance for unexpected financial hardships.

United Way has three community goals: education, health, and financial stability. United Way funds programs that are working towards the same goals.

A student at Zane State College can apply for the Emergency Grant Program and receive up to $500 to cover a financial hardship. For more information about the Emergency Grant Program, please contact Kisha King at 740-588-1321 or kking1@zanestate.edu.

United Way designed the Community Impact Fund as an open funding cycle designed to quickly respond to emerging needs of the community. Interested organizations should contact Katie Grubbs, Community Impact Coordinator for United Way of Muskingum, Perry, and Morgan Counties, at 740-454-6872 or kgrubbs@unitedwayofmpm.org.

United Way of Muskingum, Perry, and Morgan Counties is a local 501(c) (3) health and human services organization which fights for the health, education, and financial stability of every person in every community.