Basic Needs
We believe everyone should be able to meet their basic needs, so they can focus on what’s possible.
Meeting Basic Needs, Creating Possibility
For many families in our community, meeting their basic needs is a daily challenge. In fact, 40% of Coloradans say they are “just getting by financially,” and one in three worry they may not always be able to afford food. Mile High United Way helps people find stability by connecting them to housing, food, transportation, childcare and other resources they need. From our 211 Help Center to our onsite food pantry, we make sure no one has to navigate a crisis alone.
When our neighbors have the support they need to navigate challenges, they can focus on what comes next: building a brighter future for themselves and their families.
Rising costs for housing, food, health care, transportation and other essentials are making it harder for families to meet their basic needs and find stability. A missed paycheck, unexpected bill or family emergency can quickly become a crisis, while complex systems and limited access to support can make finding help even harder. When families cannot access the help they need, it becomes harder to stay healthy, keep a job, support their children’s success and plan for the future.
17% of Colorado households with children reported not having enough food because they could not afford it. (U.S. Census Bureau)
40% of Coloradans say they are “just getting by financially,” and one in three Coloradans worry they may not always be able to afford food. (Colorado Health Foundation)
Last year, Mile High United Way received more than 360,000 requests for critical resources through 211, with housing assistance among the top needs.
How We Support Basic Needs
When people are facing a crisis, knowing where to turn can make all the difference. Mile High United Way connects people to resources that help meet immediate needs and create greater stability, so they can focus on building a stronger future.
Our Programs
211 Help Center
Connecting people to essential resources, including food, housing, healthcare, transportation and utility assistance and more.
Bridging The Gap
Connecting young people who are transitioning from foster care with access to stable housing and other critical supports.
Community Schools
Bringing together educators, families and community partners to connect families with the resources they need to help students thrive in the classroom.
The Joan Leprino Community Corner
Providing families with fresh food, prepared meals and other essential resources through our onsite food pantry.
Renew Collaborative
Helping families stay housed by preventing eviction and addressing barriers to long-term housing stability.
Uptown Apartments
Providing stable, affordable housing for young adults and families as they work toward long-term stability.
Our Impact Last Year
Behind every number is a story. A family putting food on the table. A parent getting to work. A neighbor finding the support they need when they need it most.
386,000
connections to critical resources, including food, transportation and more
187,827
people provided support across our state through 211
14,100
emergency housing nights provided to neighbors affected by the Aspen Acres Fire in Summer 2026
Our Stories
Invest in Mile High United Way
Help our neighbors meet their basic needs and find stability, so they can focus on building a stronger future.