VALDOSTA, Ga. (WALB) - Greater Valdosta United Way (GVUW) reports an increase of families, seniors, and individuals that need assistance with utilities and food, along with mental health support.

Michael Smith, President and CEO says the 2026 ‘United We THRIVE’ Campaign continues GVUW’s mission to unite people and resources while tackling the region’s most pressing challenges.

Since its founding in 1954, GVUW has invested more than $45 million back into South Georgia communities. These dollars have supported local programs and initiatives that address basic needs, provide housing and shelter, expand mental health training and awareness, and advance youth and after school initiatives.

“We want families and individuals not just to be surviving month to month but truly have the resources and ability to thrive and it’s been a challenge after back to back hurricanes, inflationary pressure,” Smith said. “Now the government shutdown will affect not just nonprofit budgets but family budgets too.”

Smith said this year’s goal of $1.3 million will help over 40 programs across 22 nonprofits that serve the South Georgia region.

“Every nonprofit, you’re still running a business and organization that has increased expenses and payroll. You are focused on our (GVUW) dollars to help be that steady monthly deposit and cashflow for these organizations for their program support,” Smith said. “To hopefully relieve a little bit of stress so that they know money is coming in thanks to our donors and supporters.”

This past year marked a series of historic achievements for GVUW, including a record number of investments to local partner agencies and the passage of a Resolution from the State of Georgia recognizing GVUW’s disaster recovery impact across South Georgia.

Businesses are encouraged to join the giving by hosting a United Way Workplace Campaign.

GVUW says these campaigns give employees an opportunity to come together, make a collective impact, and see firsthand how their contributions create lasting change in the community.

For organizations and individuals looking to get involved 2025 Fall Day of Caring is Oct. 24,7:45 AM - 1:00 PM.

Day of Caring is a semi-annual event organized by GVUW to support partner nonprofits and the community by gathering volunteers to complete service projects.

Last Fall, volunteers at Second Harvest of South Georgia fill two truckloads with 35 pallets of over 4,000 pantry boxes.

To learn how you can get involved, visit www.unitedwayvaldosta.org or email [email protected] today.

WALB’s Brittanye Blake will have more in our later newscast.

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