Help Everyone in Roanoke Valley Thrive
Your donation helps more people thrive. Thank you for making our community stronger!
Building a Healthier Community
Healthy Franklin County connects residents with health and human services, as well as education and quality nutrition. With access to healthy food and information, Franklin County residents are able to make the best possible decisions for themselves and their loved ones.
36%
Franklin County residents live below the 200% federal poverty level
9,500
residents in Franklin County live in census-identified “food deserts”
1 in 3
elementary school students are struggling to read at grade level
1,400+
families in Franklin County are without banking accounts
A Comprehensive Approach to Health
Health is much more than a visit to the doctor’s office; health begins where we live, learn, work, and play. United Way is committed to supporting the underserved and fostering a culture of health. The Healthy Franklin County effort supports children, increases access to healthy food, teaches healthy food habits and improves access to healthcare.
How We Help
Smart Beginnings
We partner with 19 childcare and preschool programs in Franklin County, to help children start kindergarten with the skills they need to succeed in school – and in life!
Giving Garden
A grass-roots project that has expanded to 21 locations mobilizes gardeners to share their excess produce, which is then distributed to community centers, food banks, soup kitchens, and directly to people who need it..
Healthy Food Habits
Education for children between the ages of 2 and 7. Programs teach kids about the healthy food habits that can lead to lifelong wellness.
Food Assistance
Once a month, our most vulnerable neighbors can pick up enough food for two nutritious meals daily for five days, for each household member., providing an important safety net.
Access to Healthcare
High-quality, efficient and comprehensive health care for low-income and uninsured adults is available, including low-cost prescriptions, lab testing, counseling, referrals and specialty care for diabetics.
Transportation for Seniors
Through the Miles 2 Independence program, older adults in Franklin County without access to transportation can receive assistance with non-emergency medical transportation.

Students Give Back
Our Impact
13,000
pounds of food harvested
400
children develop the skills they need for school
200+
households received food boxes
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