United Way of Thurston County

Our latest update reveals a stark reality: 35% of Washington households are living below the ALICE threshold or in poverty. While wages increased in 2022, so did the cost of living, leaving 1,059,901 households struggling to make ends meet.

ALICE is an acronym for Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed — households that earn more than the Federal Poverty Level, but less than the basic cost of living for the county. While conditions have improved for some households, many continue to struggle, especially as wages fail to keep pace with the rising cost of household essentials (housing, child care, food, transportation, health care, and a basic smartphone plan). Households below the ALICE Threshold — ALICE households plus those in poverty — can’t afford the essentials.

ALICE households have grown by 44% since 2010. The pandemic's end saw the loss of critical supports like child tax credits, further squeezing families already on the edge.

"This data is a reminder that while we have made some progress, our work is far from over," Chris Wells, Executive Director, United Way of Thurston County. "A small portion of adults (16 years and older) in Thurston County were unemployed and a large number were working in 2022. However, a substantial portion of both full and part-time workers are paid by the hour; these workers are more likely to have fluctuations in income and less likely to receive benefits."

Let's break down these barriers together. Read the full report and explore interactive dashboards at UnitedForALICE.org/Washington.

We are thrilled to announce Olympia Master Builders Foundation as the newest Cornerstone Partner of United Way of Thurston County (UWTC). Cornerstone Partners are essential to our mission and success.

Cornerstone Partners provide foundational support, vital leadership, and invaluable insight on community issues.

The Cornerstone Partners program connects us with corporate supporters, individuals, and organizations committed to long-term relationships with UWTC. With a $10K annual commitment over three years, our Cornerstone Partners receive exposure across all our marketing materials and significant visibility at our events.

For more information about the Cornerstone Partner program, contact Zach Davis-Price, [email protected].

Join over 500 volunteers in LIVE UNITED t-shirts as we pull weeds, paint buildings, and clean sidewalks throughout Thurston County for Days of Caring.

This amazing event fosters team spirit, giving back, and supporting organizations in need. Since 1992, Days of Caring has brought our community together to demonstrate the power of collective action. Stay tuned for more information!

Learn more here: https://www.unitedway-thurston.org/day-caring

The National Weather Service has issued a Heat Advisory from noon July 5 to 10 p.m., July 8.

Hot conditions are expected, with temperatures in the upper 80s and 90s. This will pose a moderate to major risk of heat-related illness.

💧 Stay hydrated.
🌲 Stay in an air-conditioned space or shade during this time.
👉 Check on relatives, friends and neighbors who might struggle in this weather.
❌ Do not leave pets or children in unattended vehicles.

Temperatures will remain well above normal next week with only gradual cooling expected. Because extreme heat can cause illness and worsen existing health conditions, Thurston County Emergency Management is opening cooling centers throughout the county during the heat wave. According to a news release from Thurston County Emergency Management and Thurston County Public Health & Social Services, eight cooling centers will be available, providing indoor, air-conditioned spaces for visitors.

An emergency cooling center for those without a place to stay indoors also will be available.

Hawks Prairie Timberland Library is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at 8205 Martin Way E, Suite B, Lacey. Limited seating is available.

Lacey Timberland Library is in operation from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. every day but Sunday at 500 College St SE.

Olympia Timberland Library is in operation from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. every day but Sunday at 313 Eighth Ave SE.

Rainier Senior Center is available as needed at 108 Michigan St. S., Rainier. Call 360-292-5363 for more information.

Tenino Timberland Library is in operation from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday at 172 Central Ave W.

Tumwater Timberland Library is in operation from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. every day but Sunday at 7023 New Market St. SE.

Yelm Timberland Library is in operation from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday at 210 Prairie Park St.

Virgil Clarkson Lacey Senior Center will be open Sunday from 12:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Monday from 8 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., and Tuesday from 8 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. at 6757 Pacific Ave SE.

An emergency daytime cooling center for those without a place to stay indoors will be available from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Sunday at Sergio’s Place, 3444 Martin Way NE. Pets are welcome. During open hours, donations of water, sunscreen, aloe, sports drinks, hats and snacks will be accepted at Sergio’s Place.

Several emergency shelter options are available in the county, including Union Gospel Mission for single adults and Community Youth Services for those ages 18 to 24.

A family-friendly cooling center will be open at Family Support Center, 3545 Seventh Ave. SW, Suite 200. Emotional support animals are allowed.

More information on shelters in Thurston County can be found by calling the Thurston County Shelter Hotline at 844-628-7343.

As you step down from your roles on the United Way of Thurston County Board of Directors, we want to express our deepest gratitude for your years of service and unwavering commitment to our community. Your dedication to improving the health, education, and financial stability of Thurston County has made a lasting impact.

Deb Clemens, your vision and leadership have inspired us to reach new heights.

Charles Shelan, your passion and advocacy have amplified our mission and broadened our reach.

Jim Leonard, your strategic insights and relentless pursuit of excellence have strengthened our initiatives.

Maria Robinson, your dedication and compassionate approach have enriched our programs and touched many lives.

Together, you have helped shape a brighter future for countless individuals and families. Your contributions have been invaluable, and your legacy will continue to influence our work for years to come.

Thank you for your tireless efforts, your generosity, and your belief in the power of community. We are incredibly grateful for everything you have done and will miss your presence on the board. Wishing you all the best in your future endeavors.

-All of us at United Way of Thurston County

A huge shoutout to Olympia Master Builders Foundation for inviting United Way to your fabulous “Viva Las Vegas” OMB Education Foundation Live and Silent Auction! We had an absolute blast! 🎉✨

📸 Check out Chris Wells at the podium, and Zach making sure everyone’s rocking their LIVE UNITED T-shirts!

SUN Bucks, Summer Grocery Benefit for Kids

SUN Bucks is a new grocery benefit available across most of the U.S. Families with eligible school-aged children can get $120 per child to buy groceries during the summer. SUN Bucks may have a different name depending on your location. Families can receive SUN Bucks on top of other benefits like SNAP and WIC, and children can continue to enjoy free SUN Meals from local meal sites or with SUN Meals To-Go.

If one is already enrolled in benefits like SNAP, TANF, or FDPIR, their school-age children will automatically be enrolled in SUN Bucks if it is available where they live. Also, if a child attends a school that offers the National School Lunch Program or School Breakfast Program (NSLP/SBP), and the household income meets the requirements for free or reduced-price school meals, the child may automatically be enrolled in SUN Bucks.

If one is not automatically enrolled, they can apply for SUN Bucks directly. To qualify, you must meet income limits and other requirements. https://www.fns.usda.gov/summer/sunbucks

Congratulations to Zach Davis-Price, our Director of Resource Development, on graduating from Leadership Thurston County!

LTC, a program by the Thurston County Chamber Foundation, is dedicated to developing informed, skilled, and committed community leaders who represent the diverse citizens of our area. We're so proud of Zach's accomplishment and can't wait to see the positive impact he'll continue to make in our community!

We are closed today in honor of Juneteenth, a U.S. federal holiday celebrated on June 19. This holiday commemorates the 1865 emancipation of enslaved people in Texas, two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. It reminds us of the importance of freedom and equity for all.

Happy Pride Month!

In Thurston County, there are many opportunities to attend a Pride event or sponsor an event or organization:

Capitol Pride Flag Raising: Thursday, June 13 at 12:00 pm, Flag Circle in front of the Capitol Building, 416 Sid Snyder Ave SW, Olympia.

Capital City Pride’s 2024 Day Schedule:

June 22 – Pub Crawl
June 28 – Friday – Drag Block Party
June 29 – Saturday – Pride’s Art & Music Festival
June 29 – Saturday – After Party @ Capitol Theater
June 30 – Sunday – Parade & D**e Day in the Park
2024 Thurston County Pride Fest: Saturday, June 8, 10 am—5 pm at the Thurston County Fairgrounds in Lacey. Live DJ, vendors, food, free crafts for kids to do, raffles, and lots more!

To further support the LGBTQ+ community, share and connect with these local resources:

The Washington State LGBTQ Commission
Pizza Klatch
PFLAG-Olympia
Stonewall Youth
The New BoyZ Club
Sound Alliance of Older LGBTQ+ (SAOL), formerly known as SAGE Olympia
BLISS – BIPOC & LGBTQ+ Intersectional Support Services

Do you love slow-cooked traditional BBQ? Well here’s your chance to get your taste buds satisfied. On behalf of the Lacey South Sound Chamber and community partners, we welcome one and all to the mouthwatering world of BBQ at the South Sound BBQ Festival in Lacey, WA!

There will be live entertainment, free kids activities, chicken wing eating contest, adult-only beer & wine garden, outdoor activities, vendors, and SO MUCH MORE!

Stop by the United Way of Thurston County booth to say hi!

Where: Saturday, July 13, 2024
When:
Festival 11:00 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Beer Garden 12:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Cost: Free

Learn more: https://laceysschamber.com/events/south-sound-bbq-festival/

🍓🥦 The Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) in Lewis, Mason, and Thurston Counties allows seniors to purchase fresh, locally grown fruits, vegetables, honey, and herbs from authorized farmers markets and roadside stands. Participants also receive nutrition education, recipes, and food prep tips.

This program not only supports seniors but also boosts local agriculture, helping to develop new farmers markets and community-supported agriculture programs.
Learn more here: https://bit.ly/3R3Ixaf 🌱🌟

📢 Our latest update reveals a stark reality: 35% of Washington households are living below the ALICE threshold or in poverty. Despite wage increases in 2022, the cost of living also rose, leaving over a million households struggling.

ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) households earn above the Federal Poverty Level but less than the basic cost of living. Many still struggle as wages don't keep pace with rising costs of essentials like housing, child care, and healthcare.

Since 2010, ALICE households have grown by 44%. The end of the pandemic saw the loss of crucial supports, squeezing families further.

"This data is a reminder that while we have made some progress, our work is far from over," says Chris Wells, Executive Director of United Way of Thurston County.

Let's break down these barriers together. Read the full report at UnitedForALICE.org/Washington.

We're hiring a Resource Development and Events Manager in Olympia, WA!

Here are the details:
This permanent role is Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m., with a salary of $60,000/year.

Responsibilities include planning and implementing events, coordinating sponsorships, marketing, and managing volunteers.

Amazing benefits: 100% employer-paid medical/dental/vision, disability coverage, 11 holidays, 120 hours PTO, and a simple IRA with up to 3% match.

Apply here: jobs.expresspros.com/job/14269584

The 211 network handles over 21 million requests from urgent to everyday needs annually. Thousands of caring, local experts can help 24/7, offering confidential support for basic needs like housing, food, and healthcare.

For non-emergency resources, visit 211.org or dial 211 today!

Thank you to all the wonderful volunteers who made Shelter Shower a success! Your dedication and hard work helped gather much-needed shelter items for Family Support Center of South Sound and SafePlace Olympia. A special shoutout to 1st Security Bank for their generous support. Together, we are making a difference in our community!

🌟 A huge shoutout to Sivone Narong of Morgan Stanley for generously donating to support our local shelters! Your kindness makes a difference in our community. 💙 Thank you for your incredible support, Sivone!

The Asian Pacific Islander Coalition of South Puget Sound, in partnership with the City of Olympia and South Puget Sound Community College, invites everyone to celebrate Asian, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander American heritage and cultures. Enjoy food vendors, performances, and activities for the entire family. This event's mission is to highlight Asian, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander American communities, cultures, traditions, and experiences. It is free and open to all.

When: Saturday, May 11, 2024 from 11:00 am - 4:00 pm
Where: SPSCC Lacey Campus, 4220 6th Ave SE, Lacey, WA 98503

Learn more here: https://www.apicsouthpugetsound.org/aanhpi-heritage-month-celebration

We're at the forefront of fighting poverty and building pathways to financial stability. Our initiatives focus on marginalized groups, bridging service gaps, and implementing effective strategies for real change.

In 2023-2024, we're empowering tomorrow's leaders through:
🔹 High School Navigators and Case Managers: Ensuring all Thurston County students have support for their educational journey.
🔹 Legislative advocacy for High School and Beyond Plan Requirements.
🔹 Establishing Student Needs Centers to address crucial needs like food and childcare.

Let's create a brighter future where everyone can thrive! Join us in shaping tomorrow's leaders.


📸 From left to right, Gabby (she/her), Chris (he/him) and Masa (he/him). Masa Kawamura, is an Outreach and Admissions Specialist and Navigator.

We're on a mission to empower ALICE families (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) by boosting FAFSA completion rates! ✨

Completing the FAFSA isn't just paperwork – it's a gateway to vital financial aid for higher education, paving the way for grants, scholarships, and more. 🚀

Our data highlights inequalities, but with United Way Navigators, progress is tangible. Despite COVID-19 challenges, we're forging ahead towards equitable education access. 🌟

Help us expand our Navigator program county-wide to ensure every student gets the support they need.

You're Invited to Shelter Shower!
When: April 24, 2024, from 12 pm — 4 pm
Where: United Way, 3525 7th Ave SW Ste 201, Olympia
What: Our annual Shelter Shower is here. Join us in gathering much-needed shelter items for Family Support Center of South Sound and SafePlace Olympia. Our local shelters need diapers, wipes, cleaning supplies, hygiene items, and more.

Thank you, 1st Security Bank, for your support of Shelter Shower.

Learn more here
https://www.unitedway-thurston.org/shelter-shower-drive-drop-event

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Olympia Federal Savings—Downtown for their generous participation in April Food Day! Together, we're making a difference in our community by collecting non-perishable food items to combat food insecurity.
From March 22 to March 29, community members rallied and dropped off food items at designated locations across Thurston County. On April 1, our team facilitated the delivery of these much-needed donations to local food banks:
📍 Thurston County Food Bank
📍 Yelm Community Services Food Bank
📍 ROOF Community Services (serving Rochester)
📍 Tenino Community Service Center/Tenino Food Bank Plus

💙

Thanks to Glenda's Espresso for their generous contribution to April Food Day! Together, we're combating food insecurity by collecting non-perishable items. From March 22-29, Thurston County residents dropped off donations at various locations. On April 1, we delivered these items to local food banks: Thurston County Food Bank, Yelm Community Services Food Bank, ROOF Community Services, and Tenino Community Service Center/Food Bank Plus.

Thanks to WaFd Bank for their generous contribution to April Food Day! Together, we're combating food insecurity by collecting non-perishable items. From March 22-29, Thurston County residents dropped off donations at various locations. On April 1, we delivered these items to local food banks: Thurston County Food Bank, Yelm Community Services Food Bank, ROOF Community Services, and Tenino Community Service Center/Food Bank Plus.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to The Olympia Bed Store for their participation in April Food Day! Together, we're making a difference in our community by collecting non-perishable food items to combat food insecurity.

From March 22 to March 29, community members rallied and dropped off food items at designated locations across Thurston County. On April 1, our team facilitated the delivery of these much-needed donations to local food banks:
📍 Thurston County Food Bank
📍 Yelm Community Services Food Bank
📍 ROOF Community Services (serving Rochester)
📍 Tenino Community Service Center/Tenino Food Bank Plus