United Community Relief Fund Awards $117,000 to Local Nonprofits Providing Food Assistance to Reside

LAKELAND, FL (December 9, 2025) – GiveWell Community Foundation and United Way of Central Florida are pleased to announce that $117,000 in grants have been awarded to local nonprofit organizations that have been serving community members affected by recent disruptions in government-funded food programs.
 
After a survey of community nonprofits to determine the most pressing needs, 27 organizations in Polk, Highlands, and Hardee counties were selected to receive funding. The grants, distributed through the United Community Relief Fund, allow the organizations to replenish food pantries, continue feeding operations, or provide additional assistance to clients. 

“We are grateful for the generosity of fundholders and other individuals who donated to the United Community Relief Fund, allowing us to respond quickly to the urgent needs of families in our community,” said Callie Neslund, GiveWell Community Foundation President and CEO. 

“The United Community Relief Fund demonstrates the strength of our community’s commitment to coming together during times of uncertainty to help neighbors facing hardship, providing critical relief when they need it most,” said United Way of Central Florida President & CEO Christina Criser Jackson.
 
Established in 2020 by GiveWell Community Foundation and United Way of Central Florida, the United Community Relief Fund is activated during times of crisis to support nonprofit organizations serving residents in Polk, Hardee, and Highlands counties.