Helping Children, Families, and Area Residents Succeed
Our Neighborhood Zone in Columbia is anchored by the United Way Family Center in Columbia, offering affordable, accessible childcare and helpful resources for people in Howard County.
Howard County is known for having one of the highest median incomes in the state.
But it also has one of the highest costs of living, making it a difficult place to get by—or even get ahead—for people earning a low to moderate income. United Way’s ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) Report shows that nearly ¼ of Howard County households struggle to afford just the basics, like housing and utilities, food, healthcare, transportation, healthcare, and childcare.
We understand Howard County’s strengths and challenges, and our strong partnerships with local nonprofits, community organizations, and businesses help fuel our work here.
With residents and our partners, we co-created the United Way Neighborhood Zone in Columbia: a resource hub focused on multi-generational support that encourages social, economic, and educational advancement.
Meeting the need for affordable, accessible childcare in Howard County
Higher than average childcare costs in the region—averaging $2,000/month for two children–place an additional burden on parents who are already struggling to make ends meet. For many, the cost of childcare is their highest expense after housing.
Families have limited options for affordable childcare in Howard County. And early Head Start programs—for infants and toddlers from families with low incomes—don’t exist here.
Neighborhood Zone services offered free of charge to community members include:
For more information:
7115 Columbia Gateway Drive, Columbia, MD 21046
Meeting the need for affordable, accessible childcare in Howard County
Higher than average childcare costs in the region—averaging $2,000/month for two children–place an additional burden on parents who are already struggling to make ends meet. For many, the cost of childcare is their highest expense after housing.
Families have limited options for affordable childcare in Howard County. And early Head Start programs—for infants and toddlers from families with low incomes—don’t exist here.
