When crisis strikes, United Way of Martin County steps forward to ensure that local families are not left behind. Through strategic investments, coordinated partnerships, and rapid response efforts, United Way continues to strengthen Martin County’s safety net – especially during moments of uncertainty and hardship..png)
In October 2024, a series of tornadoes compounded by Hurricane Milton caused widespread destruction across the Treasure Coast. Hundreds of homes were damaged or destroyed, and many low-income families were suddenly faced with unsafe living conditions, food insecurity, and lost income. United Way of Martin County quickly mobilized, working alongside trusted nonprofit partners to coordinate disaster recovery efforts and ensure essential resources reached those most in need.
Through this coordinated response, United Way partnered with organizations including The Community Foundation Martin–St. Lucie, House of Hope, Salvation Army, and Habitat for Humanity to distribute food and supplies, support housing repairs, and help Martin County families bridge gaps created by lost wages. This
collaborative, community-wide approach ensured resources were used efficiently and that help reached residents quickly during an unprecedented time.
In recognition of their leadership and collaboration during the disaster response, United Way of Martin County recently presented its Live United Award to House of Hope, Salvation Army, and Habitat for Humanity at its annual Community Leaders’ Celebration.
“Our community is stronger and more resilient when we LIVE UNITED,” said Carol G. Houwaart-Diez, CEO of United Way of Martin County. “United Way’s role is to bring partners together, identify urgent needs, and invest where support will make the greatest impact – whether during natural disasters or ongoing economic challenges.”
As the community continued to recover from storm-related impacts, additional pressures emerged. Federal budget cuts and changes to SNAP, WIC, and other safety-net programs significantly reduced food assistance for families, seniors, and individuals already struggling to make ends meet. These reductions created an immediate strain on local nonprofits and increased demand for emergency food and financial assistance.
In response, United Way of Martin County made targeted investments to stabilize critical services. The organization
provided $20,000 to House of Hope to support expanded pantry services and emergency assistance for families impacted by the loss of federal benefits. United Way also allocated $20,000 to the Council on Aging of Martin County, ensuring seniors – many living on fixed incomes – continued to have access to food, support services, and basic necessities during this challenging period.
These investments reflect United Way’s commitment to proactively addressing gaps in the system and supporting partners who are on the front lines of service delivery.
“We’re grateful for United Way’s leadership and trust in our efforts to respond to community needs,” said Karen Ripper, CEO of Council on Aging of Martin County. “This partnership strengthens our ability to serve vulnerable neighbors and ensure critical support reaches those who need it most.”
Through disaster recovery, funding advocacy, and strategic partnerships, United Way of Martin County remains focused on its mission to improve lives by advancing education, financial stability, and health – especially when families face their greatest challenges.
For more information about United Way of Martin County and how to support its work, visit UnitedWayMartin.org.