United Way Suncoast has announced recipients of its 2018 Strategic Impact Investments for Manatee County. Volunteer members of the Community Impact Committee, chaired by Debbie Tapp, reviewed proposals in partnership with staff to select partners and initiatives. Recipients had to demonstrate alignment with the mission to break the cycle of generational poverty through a focus on education and adult financial stability in Manatee County, as well as the ability to deliver measurable impact. More than $350,000 will be awarded to partners to ensure children enter school ready to learn, that they read on grade level by the end of third grade and they achieve academic success in middle and high school, so they graduate ready for college or career. Education Partners include: Big Brothers/Big Sisters of the Suncoast; Boys and Girls Clubs of Manatee County; Early Learning Coalition of Manatee County; Palmetto Youth Center and more. In addition, nearly $170,000 will be invested to provide resources to stabilize ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) individuals and families in crisis so they can focus on long-term financial stability.

United Way Suncoast