Advocate

Why We Advocate

At United Way of New York City, our advocacy is rooted in equity and justice. We invigorate and elevate the voices of the communities we serve, particularly low income communities, communities of color, and immigrant communities, to drive systems change to ensure all New Yorkers, especially those who have been overlooked, have sufficient income and opportunities to thrive. We are not just assisting people today but helping set policies that will serve our communities in the future.

Coalition Building & Where We Stand

The challenges that New York City faces cannot be solved by one person or program, and is why we firmly believe in engaging the entire community. United Way of New York City leads and participates in advocacy coalitions and working groups with community partners to engage in strategic policy work. As a multi–issue organization, we partner with like-minded organizations, leaders and coalitions across the City and State to amplify our collective voice.

 

  • We believe all students deserve equitable access to educational opportunities. We are active members of the New York Equity Coalition.
  • We believe investing in high-quality early childhood programs is a window to the brightest possible future for New York’s children. We are active members of the Raising New York Coalition.
  • We believe our state Working Family Tax Credits should promote equity and economic security rather than reinforce existing barriers to health, wealth and a better life. We are members of the New York BOOST (Bridge to Opportunity and Outcome) Coalition.
  • We believe investment in local food systems and supply chains, healthy food access and increased food purchasing power, such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, are crucial for addressing food insecurity. We are also members of the New York COVID-19 Food Coalition.
  • We support the nonprofit sector, and community programs, which we know are lifelines for our communities.

Take Action Today

  • Join our next town hall & educational session as part of our latest call to action.
  • Join us, United Way leaders across the country, and our anti-hunger partners in urging members of Congress to increase the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefit level by 15%. This is crucial to help families keep food on the table. For every SNAP dollar invested, up to $1.80 goes right back into the economy. Read the joint statement between United Way of New York City and Joel Berg, CEO at Hunger Free America.