Basic Needs Assistance in Utah
Basic Needs
United is the Way to help Utah kids and families meet their basic needs.
United Way of Salt Lake mobilizes people and resources to ensure everyone has secure access to essentials like housing, food, transportation, and health care. We know that when these needs are met, people in our community are empowered to thrive.
211 Utah Connects People to the Help They Need
211 Utah is the single access point to Utah’s 10,000+ social service programs. Supported by United Ways of Utah (United Way of Salt Lake, United Way of Central and Southern Utah, and United Way of Northern Utah), this vital service helps people navigate complex systems by providing information, support, and one-on-one assistance.
United Way of Salt Lake manages the 211 Utah Salt Lake City team comprised of compassionate, highly trained Service Navigators, Database Curators, Disaster Specialists, and Outreach Coordinators who connect you to the support you need when in crisis or difficult circumstances.
Basic Needs By the Numbers
referrals were made on behalf of Utahns in need through 211 Utah.
of the needs requested through 211 Utah are basic needs including housing, utility assistance, transportation, health care, and food.*
of eligible cases had a follow-up scheduled to ensure clients received the help they needed.
All data reflects FY26. *Housing and utility assistance accounted for 54% of all basic needs requested.
Our Basic Needs Initiatives
Our Basic Needs Advocacy
As part of our public policy work, United Way of Salt Lake advocates for initiatives addressing healthcare, affordable housing, and access to healthy food to promote overall health and well-being for all children and families.
Our Funded Partners in Basic Needs
United Way of Salt Lake supports and collaborates with many funded partners who provide services and resources to address food insecurity, provide health resources, and more. By fueling this work, we broaden our impact and empower more children and families across Utah to meet their basic needs and thrive.
Funded partner list reflects FY26.
How You Can Help
Volunteer
Support basic needs outcomes through service like meal kit and hygiene packing in schools.
Give
Make one-time or monthly donations to support basic needs work through 211 Utah.
United is the Way to Help Utah Kids and Families Meet Their Basic Needs
United Way of Salt Lake mobilizes people and resources to ensure everyone has secure access to essentials like housing, food, transportation, and health care. We know that when these fundamental needs are met, people in our community are empowered to thrive. Our overarching goal is to provide comprehensive basic needs assistance in Utah to ensure everyone has a foundation for a stable, secure, and successful life.
How You Can Help
Whether you want to give your time or share your resources, there are many impactful ways to help families in Salt Lake City and across the state.
Volunteer Your Time
Your time and energy are invaluable in providing basic needs assistance. We offer a variety of volunteer opportunities tailored to support local schools, neighborhoods, and community centers.
- Kit Packing Events: Join us to assemble meal kits, hygiene kits, and school supplies for students and families facing insecurity.
- Community Outreach: Participate in localized events and initiatives that bring resources directly to the neighborhoods that need them most.
- Corporate Volunteering: Organize a group from your workplace to spend a day giving back and building teamwork while supporting our community.
Make a Donation
Financial contributions directly fuel our ongoing initiatives and help families overcome sudden emergencies and daily challenges.
- Monthly Giving: Set up a recurring donation to provide sustained, reliable support for housing, utilities, and healthcare programs.
- Workplace Campaigns: Multiply your impact by participating in your employer’s United Way giving campaign, often with corporate matching.
- In-Kind Donations: Contribute non-perishable foods, winter coats, or essential school supplies during our seasonal community drives.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What exactly qualifies as basic needs assistance?
Basic needs encompass the essential resources required for human survival, stability, and well-being. This primarily includes secure housing, nutritious food, reliable transportation, and accessible healthcare.
How does United Way of Salt Lake distribute my donation?
Donations are strategically invested into community-based initiatives, like the Arbor 515 Emergency Fund, and our funded partners. These partners have a proven track record of addressing food insecurity, preventing homelessness, and improving health outcomes.
Can I volunteer as an individual, or do I need a group?
Both! We happily welcome individuals, families, and corporate groups to participate in our service projects.
What is 211 Utah?
211 Utah is a free, confidential service managed by United Way that connects individuals with over 10,000 health and human service resources, serving as a critical lifeline for those in crisis.
