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United Way of Missoula County

United Way of Missoula County

Improving youth opportunity, financial security, health, and resilience for Missoula County residents

Mission & Overview

United Way brings together community partners to build long-term solutions in education, health, financial stability, and community resilience. Its initiatives support children and families, strengthen emergency response systems, expand early childhood learning, reduce suicide risk, and address homelessness through prevention and rapid-rehousing strategies.

Programs & Initiatives

United Way's work is best understood through four pillars:

Pillar 1: Youth Opportunity

Back-to-School Backpack Program

Provides backpacks and essential school supplies for students whose families face financial hardship.

Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library

More than 3,000 children in Missoula and Mineral counties receive a free book every month from birth to age five to support literacy and kindergarten readiness.

Zero to Five Missoula

A countywide initiative ensuring young children have the experiences and support needed to thrive from birth to age five.

Pillar 2: Healthy Community

5-2-1-0 Let’s Move! Missoula

A health initiative promoting daily habits that support well-being for children and adults.

Project Tomorrow Montana

A suicide prevention partnership providing training (including QPR), awareness, and community-wide support.

Substance Use Disorder Resources

Includes:

Pillar 3: Community Resilience

Wildfire Ready Missoula County

A cost-share program helping homeowners address wildfire risk through assessments, contractor support, and mitigation funding.

Disaster Assistance Fund

Provides financial support for individuals and communities affected by natural disasters.

Missoula CommUnity Network

A collective impact effort aligning organizations to improve access, opportunity, and livability across Missoula County.

Pillar 4: Financial Stability & Homelessness

Housing Solutions Fund

Flexible financial assistance helping residents avoid eviction, secure new housing, or resolve immediate crises such as utility arrears or application fees.

Johnson Street Shelter Housing Sprint Fund

Supports emergency shelter residents transitioning into stable housing.

Missoula Coordinated Entry System

A streamlined, collaborative approach ensuring people experiencing homelessness receive the most appropriate housing and services.

Temporary Safe Outdoor Space (TSOS)

A staffed, secure, low-barrier outdoor shelter offering safety, case management, and pathways to housing for individuals not accessing existing services.

Get Involved

Volunteer Missoula

A countywide volunteer portal operated with United Way and the Missoula Nonprofit Center.

Support youth opportunity, housing stability, early childhood literacy, and emergency response funds.

Contact Information