Frequently Asked QuestioNS

We connect people with solutions. United Way of Ulster County funds and supports programs in housing, food security, education, childcare, financial stability, and health services. We unite nonprofits, schools, businesses, and government partners to address both urgent needs and long-term challenges in Ulster County.

We’re here to help. Call us at 845-331-4199 or email info@ulsterunitedway.org anytime.

We are part of a respected national network, but we are also an independent 501(c)(3) run by local staff and a volunteer Board of Directors. Our policies, programs, and funding decisions are made right here in Ulster County. Best of all, 100% of donations stay local to support our neighbors.

ALICE stands for Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed. ALICE households are working families who earn above the federal poverty level but still struggle to afford essentials like housing, childcare, healthcare, and transportation. ALICE workers are the backbone of our community — teachers, healthcare aides, service workers — yet too often must make impossible choices between paying rent and meeting other basic needs. Supporting ALICE means supporting the strength of our entire community.

We are a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, EIN 14-1409654.

Transparency and accountability are core to our mission. United Way of Ulster County keeps administrative costs well below national standards (around 15% vs. the BBB’s 35% guideline). Each dollar is carefully stewarded, with funding decisions guided by research, measurable outcomes, and community needs.

We are governed by a volunteer Board of Directors made up of local business and community leaders. They set policies, oversee finances, and ensure your donations are invested responsibly.

211 is a free, confidential helpline available 24/7, every day of the year. Trained specialists connect callers with the most up-to-date resources for housing, food, healthcare, childcare, mental health services, and more — in over 150 languages. If you or someone you know needs help, simply dial 211.