20.1
To Campaign Goal
15
Partner Agencies
40,000
Positively Impacted by IV UW
HUSKY helps to equip economically disadvantaged students with the basic learning supplies they need to be successful at school. A variety of school supplies, from pencils to protractors, will be distributed to area public schools without charge of any kind to the schools or students.
How can I help?
Contributions and in-kind gifts to the HUSKY program are encouraged to help meet the needs of the local student community.
Why HUSKY?
Over 42% of families with children who attend area public schools are economically disadvantaged, needing financial assistance with obtaining basic school supplies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who Benefits from HUSKY
HUSKY is for economically disadvantaged children entering grades K-8 and enrolled in one of the areas public schools. The HUSKY Program provided assistance to 4509 of 9339 students who qualified this year. Schools in the United Way Illinois Valley service area are eligible to receive free HUSKY supplies: Arlington, Cherry, Cedar Point, Dalzell, Earlville, Granville, Ladd, LaSalle, Leonore, Lostant, McNabb, Magnolia, Mark, Mendota, Oglesby, Peru, Spring Valley, Standard, Tonica, Triumph, Troy Grove, and Utica. Applications are mailed to area schools in April.
Why does it matter?
Over 42% of families with children who attend area public schools are economically disadvantaged, needing financial assistance with obtaining basic school supplies. Low-income parents must first take care of housing and food needs before they can consider tackling additional expenses like school clothes and school supplies. As a result, their children go to school without the essential supplies that other children take for granted. Either the school district or the teacher has had to purchase the missing items, or the student goes without. The lack of adequate supplies can affect the children’s opportunity for academic achievement and success.
What is the cost to students?
Free; however, school supply distribution is based on income eligibility. To qualify for the HUSKY program, students must be eligible for the federal free lunch program. The supplies provided will be tailored to each school’s required supply list and the quantity of supplies presented will be determined by the number of low-income student enrollment.
Who sponsors the program?
The HUSKY program receives contributions from individuals, business, financial institutions, churches, unions, and schools. The program’s success is dependent on the generous donations of many companies, organizations and individuals.
How can I help?
Contributions and in-kind gifts to the HUSKY program are encouraged to help meet the needs of the local student community. Call United Way of Illinois Valley at 815-223-8339 for more information on how YOU can help.
Additional Program: Core Recycling
In 2005, United Way of Illinois Valley began a partnership with Core Recycling Concepts in an area-wide recycling campaign. This program is a great opportunity for all members of the community to become more involved with protecting our environment, while at the same time supporting United Way and helping us to reduce operating costs and keeping benefits to our member agencies as strong as ever.
Events
United Way of the Illinois Valley hosts a number of fundraising events throughout the year. Check out our Facebook page for upcoming events!