ESCANABA — The local United way announced Thursday that it is shifting its focus to work on solving a single issue — school readiness. The change was make with an eye to making a more significant impact on community needs, according to the United Way of Delta County (UWDC).

“For decades our local United Way has helped the community by funding a list of nonprofit partners and programs,” said Julie Mallard, UWDC executive director. “But we’re in a time now where workplace giving has changed, the list of partner agencies has gotten smaller and technology has made it so people can give to any nonprofit with a few taps on a phone.”

Now, instead of spreading its limited funds across a wide range of worthy programs, UWDC believes it can be most impactful by focusing its resources on one community issue. School readiness was chosen by the UWDC volunteer board of directors after seeking input from a community-wide task force, donors and other Delta County residents, local businesses and community partners.

“Giving kids a solid foundation to help them enter school ready to learn is something that benefits our entire community,” said Dr. Kristina Hansen, student success coordinator for Bark-River Harris Schools and UWDC board president. “Impacts are far-reaching, from reading at grade level to graduating on time to success in life. Early supports are crucial and can change the trajectory of a child’s life.”

She noted that school readiness includes not only academic preparation, but also family stability, social/emotional wellness, and other factors. “It’s really a community issue,” she said.

UWDC plans to spend the coming year meeting with early childhood professionals, educators, parents and other stakeholders; researching root causes; determining best practices and identifying gaps, needs and opportunities.

“We have a lot of work ahead, but my board and I are very excited to take this new direction. We will continue to work with some of our current partner agencies, and look forward to forging some new community partnerships as well,” Mallard said. “Our goal is for all Delta County children to enter school ready to learn by 2030.”

To support the United Way’s school readiness work in Delta County, donate online at http://uwdelta.org/donate or mail a check to P. O. Box 1005, Escanaba, MI 49829.