United Way of New York City

We're still buzzing from this year’s Power of Women Luncheon, which brought together our generous supporters to celebrate inspiring women leaders and raised critical funds to strengthen our NYC communities. ✨   Thank you again to our exceptional honorees – Dr. Jennifer Ashton, Kelly Koyama-Garcia, and Jo-Ann Yoo; and our emcee Cheryl Wills who guided us so well throughout the afternoon.    We’re grateful to our sponsors, including J.P. Morgan and LVMH, along with the members of UWNYC Women United and our Board of Directors, for their commitment to driving our mission forward.     Help us continue empowering communities across our city. Make a gift to UWNYC here: unitedway.nyc/42r3j9O

📚 It’s #NationalLibraryWeek — and we’re spotlighting our Community Libraries! From schools to laundromats to community centers, our Community Libraries bring books and literacy resources directly to where families live, learn, and gather. These spaces are especially vital in neighborhoods without easy access to public libraries or bookstores — helping ensure every child can experience the joy of reading. Because every student deserves the tools to learn, grow, and thrive. Check out photos of some of our community libraries, including one in our office. Help us build more community libraries like these by donating at https://lnkd.in/ecPAtQ3k

The #GridironGala is officially sold out—but there’s still a meaningful way you can make an impact. Become a Community Impact Sponsor and help UWNYC drive change for communities across our city. This meaningful, non-attending sponsorship is 100% tax deductible and ensures your generosity goes where it’s needed most: 🫛 200 lbs. of food for local pantries ❤️ 50 community health screenings 🧠 30 family therapy sessions for justice-involved youth 📚 500 books for young readers Every gift helps build a stronger NYC. Learn more here: unitedway.nyc/429uwOq

Food banks across NYC are facing a crisis as 2.5 million pounds of food deliveries are paused and federal funding cuts continue. Our President & CEO Grace C. Bonilla, Esq. was quoted in The City about the impact of these cuts on our communities and the critical role food assistance programs play in supporting families.    “It’s getting to a tipping point where some [food banks] are honestly talking about whether they keep their doors open,” she said. “And for neighborhoods that are desperately needing those pantries to be there, that’s a really scary thought.”    Read The City’s full story here: https://lnkd.in/ekufny5A

Every year at the #GridironGala, we recognize Hometown Heroes—players who don’t just excel in football but also use their platform for good. 🏈 This year’s New York Football Giants honoree, Kayvon Thibodeaux, has made his mark as a dominant force on Big Blue's defense. But his biggest plays happen off the field—through The Jream Foundation, he’s creating opportunities for underserved youth in education, athletics, and mentorship. From hosting youth camps to feeding families and advocating for voter engagement, Kayvon is proving that true leadership extends beyond the stadium.     Read more about the Gridiron Gala Honorees at gridirongala.org

The #GridironGala’s Hometown Hero award honors players who lead by example both on the field and in their communities. 🏈 Our 2025 Honoree from the New York Jets, Quarterback Tyrod Taylor, is a 14-year National Football League (NFL) veteran with a Super Bowl ring, a Pro Bowl selection, and a reputation as a leader. Off the field, he’s a true champion for his community. As the New York Jets’ 2025 #GridironGala Hometown Hero, Tyrod will be recognized for his work through the Tyrod Taylor Foundation, which uplifts underserved NYC youth with education and mentorship programs. His commitment extends to hosting community events, providing essential resources, and inspiring the next generation to dream big. We’re excited to celebrate Tyrod’s professional accomplishments and his impact beyond the game.   Read more about the Gridiron Gala Honorees at gridirongala.org

UWNYC President & CEO Grace C. Bonilla, Esq. sat down with Cheryl Wills on NY1 News' In Focus to talk about the growing demand for food assistance, how federal budget cuts are impacting our work, and the solutions we bring to New York City communities.     Watch the full interview here: https://lnkd.in/ePu-FaV4

Our President & CEO Grace C. Bonilla, Esq. was recently featured in the Downtown Magazine NYC, Inc Women’s Issue 2025, opening up about the most difficult part of her job and sharing her best advice for the next generation of women leaders. Watch her full interview here: https://lnkd.in/ebR_vmBU

Yesterday, we stood alongside other anti-hunger advocates on the steps of City Hall to call for $100M in funding for Community Food Connection (CFC) in the upcoming city budget. CFC is a vital New York City-funded program which supports more than 700 community kitchens and food pantries citywide.    We applaud Speaker Adrienne Adams, New York City Council, and Council Members Diana Ayala and Justin Brannan for including this $100M in funding for CFC in their budget response—your leadership is essential to ensuring no New Yorker goes hungry. Now, we urge Mayor Eric Adams to not only restore past cuts to CFC but to approve $100M for the program in this and future budgets.    At a time when New Yorkers face an affordability crisis and federal cuts to vital services, our city must step up. We must invest in food security, not add to the pressures our neighbors feel.    Join UWNYC, Food Bank For New York City, City Harvest, The Roundtable: Allies for Food Access, The NYC Food Policy Alliance, Hunger Free America and anti-hunger advocates across the city in urging Mayor Adams to fund CFC at $100M and fight for a food secure New York City. Together, let’s ensure the city budget reflects the urgent needs of New York City families and the organizations that serve them.

At the #GridironGala, we celebrate Community Quarterbacks—leaders in business who bring the same level of dedication to philanthropy as they do to their careers.     This year’s honoree, Dasha Smith, Executive Vice President, Chief Administrative Officer of the National Football League (NFL), is a true game-changer. As a member of Commissioner Goodell’s executive operating committee, she oversees key initiatives spanning diversity & inclusion, social responsibility, and philanthropy. Dasha has been recognized as a Sports Business Journal Game Changer and one of the Most Influential People in Football by NBC Sports. We are proud to recognize Dasha’s commitment to leadership, innovation, and giving back.  Read more about the Gridiron Gala Honorees at gridirongala.org