Investing in Youth: United Way Northwest indiana Awarded $50,000 for Health 2 Home Early Childhood Initiative

United Way Northwest Indiana (UWNWI), in partnership with Goodwill of Michiana’s Nurse-Family Partnership, has been awarded a $50,000 Collaboration Challenge Grant from First Things First Porter County to launch Health 2 Home Porter County.

At United Way Northwest Indiana, we believe strong communities are, in part, made up of strong families.  Health 2 Home ensures children have the best possible start in life by surrounding families with support beginning in pregnancy and continuing through a child’s first two years.

Through in-home nurse visits, developmental screenings, and wraparound support like childcare, financial wellness and jobs training, the program aims to:

• Improve maternal and child health
• Diagnose developmental and speech delays
• Strengthen parent-child bonding
• Provide access to vital resources with personalized connections

“Health 2 Home is about more than health care—it’s about giving every child the foundation to succeed,” said Chris White President and CEO of United Way Northwest Indiana. “This grant aligns directly with our Youth Opportunities pillar by addressing barriers early so children in Porter County can thrive.”

The program focuses on families most at risk of adverse outcomes, including first-time parents, teen parents, and those facing income, housing, or health challenges. By investing early, Health 2 Home helps break cycles of poverty and opens doors to lifelong opportunities.

To learn more or support United Way’s Youth Opportunities work, visit www.unitedwaynwi.org.

About United Way Northwest Indiana

United Way Northwest Indiana is a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to improving lives across Lake, Porter, Jasper, Newton, and Starke counties. We are at the forefront of creating positive community impact through strategic initiatives aligned with our four core pillars: Financial Security, Youth Opportunity, Healthy Individuals, and Resilient Communities. 

Our mission is to improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of our community to advance the common good, tackling local challenges with innovative solutions and collaborative partnerships.

Through our flagship Level Up Program and community-driven initiatives, United Way Northwest Indiana strives to foster lasting change and improve the quality of life for all residents. We are committed to building a stronger, more resilient Northwest Indiana.