United Way of the Plains

Our United Way team came together fast to collect food and essential items to help our friends at Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport who have been affected by the federal shutdown. This spirit of mobilizing our team to action inspired us to launch our United Against Hunger initiative, a community effort to tackle food insecurity together. We invite you to join us this Friday to help local food pantries meet rising demand after recent SNAP disruptions.
📦 United Against Hunger Food Drive: Friday, Nov. 7, 8 a.m.– 3 p.m.
📍 United Way of the Plains, 245 N. Water St., Wichita, KS 67202
🚗 Drive-thru drop-off, click here for a list of most-needed nonperishable items:
https://unitedwayplains.org/united-against-hunger/

Chances are you know someone who relies on SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) to help feed their family.

In Sedgwick County alone:
More than 50,000 people use SNAP benefits. That’s nearly 1 in 10 residents.
The average recipient receives less than $200 per month.
Together, they spend $9.8 million each month at local grocery stores, supporting both families and our local economy.

Any disruption to SNAP benefits doesn’t just affect those receiving help, it impacts all of us through increased food insecurity and reduced local spending at neighborhood businesses.

While there are no simple solutions, no one in our community should have to choose between putting food on the table and paying for rent.

Grant Applications Now Open! 📣
Opportunity on the Plains is United Way of the Plains’ largest annual investment program, funding local initiatives that advance health, youth opportunity, and financial security so our neighbors across south central Kansas can thrive.
Applications for the 2026–2027 grant cycle are open now through noon on Tuesday, Dec. 30.
Learn more and apply now: unitedwayplains.org/opportunity