United Way of Waco-McLennan County outlines child-wellbeing initiatives, launches 'hot spot' referral tool

United Way of Waco-McLennan County leaders gave an update to the McLennan County Commissioners Court on April 15 on the nonprofit’s Child Well-Being initiative, describing new referral tools, coordination among service providers and local needs data.

Wendy Ellis, chief executive officer of United Way of Waco-McLennan County, told the court the organization supports more than 40 local agencies across four focus areas — financial stability, health, safety-net services and education — and that “98% of the donations that are collected here in McLennan County stay here.” She said the organization’s grants and partner work target families she described as ALICE (asset limited, income constrained, employed), noting that 17% of county families live below the federal poverty line and another roughly 26% fall into the ALICE category.

Ellis and Haley O’Connell, director of impact and engagement, described several specific efforts: a countywide communications and education campaign coordinated by four work groups (health, education, workforce/financial stability and early learning); a parenting warm line for caregivers who need immediate guidance; and a moderated messaging platform United Way calls the “hot spot,” which United Way said sends a single email to roughly 232 participants representing 92 agencies to request help for clients or to broadcast trainings and announcements.

Alan Holt, director of resource development, and other United Way staff answered questions from commissioners about duplication of services and grant strategy. United Way representatives said some service duplication exists but often reflects geographic or population segmentation (different agencies serving different zip codes or client groups). United Way said it is exploring cooperative grant applications that would encourage organizations offering similar services to partner, rather than compete for the same dollars.

Ellis said United Way’s most recent grant cycle supported more than 16,000 people who experienced family crisis or domestic violence, over 5,000 adults, pregnant women and children with health needs, nearly 500 children in free educational programs, and about 250 people who gained job skills or financial-literacy improvements. She also noted United Way has mobilized roughly 60 organizations, including government agencies, faith partners, businesses and nonprofits, to implement the Child Well-Being action plan launched in 2022.

Court members voted to accept the United Way presentation for recording purposes without further action.

United Way leaders and the court also paused for a ceremonial presentation: the court presented a proclamation recognizing the Week of the Young Child.