What does it mean to FALL UP? Even in the times when you've fallen the furthest, sometimes you land in the right place to rise UP and overcome challenging circumstances. 

As we transition into Fall, more families than ever have fallen on hard times. Our neighbors are struggling with rising housing costs, food insecurity, and financial instability, but United Against Poverty Orlando reaches out to provide a hand UP.

In February there were critical changes to SNAP work requirements, and we are just beginning to see the effects as people fall out of eligibility and begin to lose their benefits. Since July 2025, Florida has seen a decrease in program participation of 20% and we anticipate further increases in demand for UP Orlando’s services as we continue to try to bridge the gap through the end of the year.

Some of our most vulnerable neighbors, single parents and seniors between the ages of 55 and 64, must now return to a workforce they are unprepared for, or they face going hungry. Through our Success Training Employment Program (STEP) participants can requalify for eligibility while becoming equipped for long-term stability.

This month, STEP will welcome its 77th cohort, 200 families will come to us for Crisis Stabilization, and we will feed 500 individuals a day through our Member Share Grocery Program.

For September we have one powerful goal: Raise $10,000 to fund the gap.

Thanks to the generosity of First Horizon Foundation, every gift received from September 1st to September 30th will be matched dollar-for-dollar up to $10,000. That means your support will go twice as far in supporting your neighbors.

We urge you to join First Horizon in supporting:

• Career development through the Sucess Training Employment Program
• Groceries in our Member Share Grocery Program
• Crisis stabilization and case management in the Life Enrichment Center
• Meeting people in the community with the Mobile Prosperity Markets

When you donate to United Against Poverty, you're investing in Orlando’s future, helping break the cycle of poverty, and building the infrastructure for lasting economic self-sufficiency.

Will you make a gift today and bridge the gap for a brighter future?