Program areas at United Way of Santa Cruz County
United Way of scc proveds programs and administation solutions for first 5 of Santa Cruz County. First 5 Santa Cruz County improves the lives of children in the community who need the most support to make sure all children have the early experiences they need to succeed. First 5's priorities fall in three major goal areas: children are healthy; children are learning and ready for school; families are strong; services are family friendly.
2-1-1 is a centralized helpline for the public to get information on health and human services. Callers can use the easy-to-remember, toll-free number, 2-1-1, where a trained specialist will match needs to local services. In times of disaster, 2-1-1 provides up-to-date information on road closures, evacuation sites and temporary shelter, relieving the burden on 9-1-1. Youth and familieis can connect to critical services for basic needs by calling the hotline, texting their zip code to 211-211, or visiting the website,www.211santacruzcounty.org
Campaign and community impact focus on promoting college and career readiness, health and wellness, economic mobility, and community engagement. United Way of scc provides community grants to support local youth-serving programs in marginalized communities within Santa Cruz County. United Way of scc collaborates with local agencies to develop networks and strategic plans to improve the health and wellbeing for youth and families in Santa Cruz County. Youth programs include after school academic support, mental health services, healthy eating active living, mentoring, career pathways, mindfulness, nutrition workshops, and advocacy to promote healthy communities.