United, Kids Thrive

Support Beyond the Classroom: United Way Community Schools Help Kids Feel Seen

At United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley, we believe that when students thrive, entire communities grow stronger. But for too many families, challenges like housing insecurity, mental health and language barriers can get in the way of learning.

That’s where United Way Community Schools come in. They provide the consistency and care students need to feel safe, stay engaged and succeed both in and out of the classroom. As a hub of its neighborhood and staffed with full-time coordinators, Community Schools help meet basic needs through food, clothing, health care, after-school programs and family support. Each school:

• Fosters social-emotional learning
• Improves student attendance
• Encourages family engagement
• Provides behavioral health resources

By removing barriers, they give kids the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive.

For Nahla, incoming fifth grader at Paxinosa Elementary in the Easton Area School District, mornings used to bring a sense of dread. Her anxiety made walking into a classroom full of unfamiliar faces overwhelming. She missed school often, but things began to shift with help from the school’s United Way-supported resources. With patience and encouragement, Nahla began easing into her days, one step at a time.

“I didn’t like that I was late all of the time, but I started getting better little by little. Now I’m happier that I make it on time,” Nahla shared.

With consistent support, Nahla began thriving in academics and building her confidence. Today, she’s not only excelling in reading and math, but she’s also part of a student leadership group helping younger students feel welcomed and supported.

As students head back to school, your support helps make sure they’re ready to learn and thrive.